Letter from the President - Summer 2022
Pary Tell
I am writing in response to the article that appeared in the May 18th issue of The Herald regarding development in Wildwood.
Wildwood has a history that is over a century old. Its story can be observed in the different styles of architecture that are still present on the island. Mid-century modern architecture, commonly referred to as Doo Wop, is only one small part of the Wildwood story, although an important part. Wildwood has, or did have, one of the largest collections of that style in the country, a legacy to be proud of.
In November, 2021, Stephanie Hoagland, an Architectural Conservator, in a program for Preservation New Jersey, stated that in 2001, the “Wildwoods were finally experiencing a resurgence of popularity. Wildwood’s Doo Wop architecture had attracted academic and media attention. With a large number of “Mom and Pop” motels, no chain stores, and its beachside location, the Wildwoods had a distinct “sense of place” and an authentic identity.” In short order, however, over 100 of the 300 mid-century modern motels that were sparking the revival were torn down to make way for condos and new motels. Many more have disappeared since then. Now we’re experiencing a new wave of development that’s reminiscent of that which negatively affected Wildwood’s rebirth in the past.
In the most recent issue of “Preservation,” published by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, a feature article highlighted the renaissance of West Chester, Pennsylvania. Thanks to efforts by the local government and business owners, the downtown is now thriving, with restaurants, eclectic retail stores and a brewery. No buildings were destroyed. No new, modern, architecture was incorporated. The main street retained its historic charm, with old buildings updated and restored. We have only to look at Cape May to see how successful embracing a town’s past can be to economic development. In the late 1970’s, Cape May had little to attract visitors. Then it embraced its Victorian heritage to become a year round resort, pumping millions into the local economy. Even more similar to Wildwood is Asbury Park. A few years ago, Asbury Park had become an impoverished town with a rising violent crime rate. Today, by embracing its musical and entertainment roots, it’s coming back and tourists are returning to enjoy restaurants, the boardwalk hall and night clubs with good music.
Wildwood needs to embrace its reputation as a resort town, with good food, a great boardwalk and beach, and a celebrated nightlife. It needs to get back to its “distinct sense of place and authentic identity,” with shops, restaurants and night clubs with entertainment that caters to locals as well as visitors. We only have to look as the success of 60’s weekends, cover band concerts in the summer and classic car shows to see that there is definitely a demand for a nostalgic link to Wildwood’s past. Mid-century modern architecture, and the music of that era, are increasingly popular with younger generations. Mayor Byron was right when he said we shouldn’t abandon the past. That means saving those buildings that have a meaningful connection to Wildwood’s history. And it means saving the culture that led to Wildwood’s popularity in the past, its sense of place and identity. Development and preservation can peacefully coexist if developers and preservationists treat each other with respect and a willingness to compromise.
If you agree, please contact the Mayor (pbyron@wildwoodnj.org) and City Commissioners (kfitzsimons@wildwoodnj.org and smikulski@wildwoodnj.org) and let them know. The residents of Wildwood should have the town they want, not one imposed on them by others.
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