Discover Cape May’s Forgotten Role in America’s Fight for Independence

Issue #562

December 31, 2025

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In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

🐟Discover Cape May’s Forgotten Role in America’s Fight for Independence

🏊🏻‍♂️New Year, New Laws: NJ Sees Pay Raises and Toll Hikes in 2026

📦Economic Ripple: Cape May’s $44K Investment Yields Major Growth in Oyster Harvesting

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Daisy Lane Boutique

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 December 31

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Discover Cape May’s Forgotten Role in America’s Fight for Independence

Cape May’s hidden role in America’s fight for freedom will come to life this January as a new exhibit opens at the Cape May Welcome Center. The event, hosted by Cape May MAC, invites the public to discover the area’s little-known but pivotal involvement in naval operations during the American War of Independence. The exhibit opening is set for Friday, January 2, at 4 p.m., offering visitors a chance to explore the stories of local ingenuity and resistance on regional waterways during the Revolutionary era. Guests will also be treated to complimentary samples of Cape May Farmhouse Pale Ale, courtesy of Cold Spring Brewery, adding a festive touch to the afternoon. Admission to the exhibit is free, and attendees can expect to uncover fresh insights into Cape May’s maritime past—an often-overlooked chapter of its rich history. The program is presented by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture), a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and culture of Cape May. Through stewardship of historic sites such as the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse, and the World War II Lookout Tower, Cape May MAC plays a leading role in offering year-round educational and cultural programming in the nation’s only city designated as a National Historic Landmark.

New Year, New Laws: NJ Sees Pay Raises and Toll Hikes in 2026

As 2026 begins, New Jersey residents will see several new laws take effect across the state—impacting wages, transportation, and services for veterans. From minimum wage hikes to toll increases and a new state agency, the changes reflect ongoing efforts to improve economic conditions and public services. Minimum Wage Increases Across the Board Effective January 1, New Jersey’s minimum wage is rising for various categories of workers: · Most Employees: The statewide minimum wage increases by 43 cents to $15.92 per hour. · Seasonal and Small Employers: Wages rise by 70 cents, bringing the rate to $15.23 per hour. · Farmworkers (hourly or piece-rate): An 80-cent raise brings wages to $14.20 per hour. · Direct Care Staff in Long-Term Care Facilities: Their new minimum wage will be $18.92 per hour after a 43-cent increase. · Tipped Workers: The minimum cash wage rises to $6.05, with the maximum tip credit remaining at $9.87. Employers are still required to make up the difference if combined wages and tips do not meet the full minimum wage. These increases are part of a phased approach, with rates for small, seasonal, and farmworkers continuing to rise through 2028 and 2030, respectively, according to the New Jersey Department of Labor. Toll Increases for Drivers in 2026 Drivers across New Jersey will face higher tolls in the new year: · New Jersey Turnpike & Garden State Parkway: A 3% toll hike will apply to all vehicle classes as part of the 2026 spending plan. · Delaware River Bridges (NJ–PA): Tolls on the eight bridges managed by the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission are increasing: o E-ZPass users: $2 (up from $1.50) o Toll-by-Plate users: $5 (up from $3.00) · Port Authority Crossings (NJ–NY): A 25-cent increase for both E-ZPass and Toll-by-Mail users is expected to take effect in early January, pending a final vote by the Port Authority board. New Department of Veterans Affairs In a move to expand support for veterans, New Jersey is launching a dedicated Department of Veterans Affairs. This newly established agency will focus exclusively on providing housing, healthcare, mental health services, and other critical benefits to veterans and their families. The goal is to offer streamlined access to state services and ensure veterans have a strong voice in state policy decisions.

 

Economic Ripple: Cape May’s $44K Investment Yields Major Growth in Oyster Harvesting

Cape May County invested $44,000 into a science-based oyster bed enhancement program in partnership with NJDEP, resulting in 57,800 transplanted bushels and a 24,000-bushel increase in industry quotas. The effort produced an estimated $311,000 in added income for local oyster harvesters in 2025. With a return of $13 for every $1 spent, the initiative supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability in the county’s key aquaculture industry. The oyster enhancement program is supported in part by a self-imposed shell tax paid by industry participants, which helps cover research, transplanting, and planting costs. Cape May County’s involvement helped offset rising expenses associated with transporting and planting shell material, further accelerating the benefits to growers. In addition to strengthening the local aquaculture sector, the program plays a critical role in supporting sustainable fisheries management and improving the ecological health of New Jersey’s coastal waters. County leaders view this initiative as a model for how data-driven economic development can support traditional industries and preserve the region’s maritime heritage. Cape May County continues to position itself as a leader in New Jersey’s aquaculture economy by prioritizing investments that deliver long-term value to both the environment and the community.

Answer to the December 30th Trivia Question

Which historic Cape May building, now a museum, is one of the best examples of Victorian Stick style architecture in the United States?

A) Congress Hall
B) The Emlen Physick Estate
C) The Windsor Hotel
D) Cape May Lighthouse Keeper’s House

Answer: B) The Emlen Physick Estate

The Emlen Physick Estate, built in 1879, is one of the best examples of Victorian Stick style architecture in the United States. This historic house has been preserved and now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into life in Cape May during the Victorian era​.

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