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History of Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA
Journey back in time to Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA
Explore Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.Do You Have Atlantic City Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!
Atlantic City is where the street names came from for the game monopoly.
Atlantic City has the longest boardwalk in the world.
50states.com
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Atlantic City Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA
Postcard
View of Hotel Dennis and Blenheim, Atlantic City, N.J.
Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA
Postcard
View of Boardwalk and Beach
Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA
Postcard
Auditorium and Convention Hall, Atlantic City
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Discover Atlantic City: History, News, Travel, and Stories
1854 - Atlantic City
Atlantic City, a village of Atlantic co., New Jersey, the S. E. terminus of the new railroad connecting Camden with Absecom Beach. It contains as yet only 5 or 6 houses.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.
Atlantic City, a village of Atlantic co., New Jersey, the S. E. terminus of the new railroad connecting Camden with Absecom Beach. It contains as yet only 5 or 6 houses.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.
1870 - June 26, 1870: The first boardwalk in the world was completed at the resort town of Atlantic City, NJ
The Old Farmer's Almanac www.almanac.com
June 26, 1870
The Old Farmer's Almanac www.almanac.com
June 26, 1870
1884 - A SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE Felt Over a Large Region – A Vibratory Motion from Washington to Maine
...At Atlantic City water pitchers were overturned in the hotels, and in several instances furniture was thrown down and globes shaken form chandeliers. Dishes were rattled on tables, and much consternation was occasioned in a few of the hotels where the guests were assembled at their meals...
The Landmark
Statesville, North Carolina
August 15, 1884
...At Atlantic City water pitchers were overturned in the hotels, and in several instances furniture was thrown down and globes shaken form chandeliers. Dishes were rattled on tables, and much consternation was occasioned in a few of the hotels where the guests were assembled at their meals...
The Landmark
Statesville, North Carolina
August 15, 1884
1893 - BIG FIRE IN ATLANTIC CITY. THE CITY HALL, OPERA HOUSE, AND OTHER PROPERTY BURNED.
Atlantic City, N. J., Aug. 17. - The business portion of Atlantic City narrowly escaped destruction by fire at an early hour today. The fire destroyed $75,000 worth of property. One life is supposed to have been lost. The fire started before daylight in the wooden Grand Opera House. All the fire engines in the city worked in vain to keep the flames from spreading from the playhouse.
Hundreds of volunteer firemen helped the uniformed force in a fight to save the City Hall from destruction, but the big building burned like a tinder box when once it caught from flying sparks, and the various officials were compelled to flee quickly. The records were lost.
The fire next caught the train sheds of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and 145 feet of the sheds were destroyed. The entire city was illuminated by the flames, and hundreds of guests from the hotels and cottages turned out to see the spectacle.
At one time the jail was threatened, and the prisoners, eight in number, were removed to a ... Read MORE...
Atlantic City, N. J., Aug. 17. - The business portion of Atlantic City narrowly escaped destruction by fire at an early hour today. The fire destroyed $75,000 worth of property. One life is supposed to have been lost. The fire started before daylight in the wooden Grand Opera House. All the fire engines in the city worked in vain to keep the flames from spreading from the playhouse.
Hundreds of volunteer firemen helped the uniformed force in a fight to save the City Hall from destruction, but the big building burned like a tinder box when once it caught from flying sparks, and the various officials were compelled to flee quickly. The records were lost.
The fire next caught the train sheds of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and 145 feet of the sheds were destroyed. The entire city was illuminated by the flames, and hundreds of guests from the hotels and cottages turned out to see the spectacle.
At one time the jail was threatened, and the prisoners, eight in number, were removed to a ... Read MORE...
1895 - Atlantic City
Atlantic City, a pleasure- and health-resort of Atlantic co., N.J., 60 miles S.E. of Philadelphia, and on the Atlantic Ocean, is on a narrow sandy island called Absecon Beach, extending from Great Egg Harbor Inlet on the S.W. to Absecon Inlet on the N.E. It is the S.E terminus of the Camden & Atlantic Railroad, the West Jersey Railroad, and the Philadelphia & Atlantic City Railroad. The island is 10 miles long, 3 of a mile wide, and 4 to 5 miles from the mainland. Here is a good beach for bathing; also a first-order light-house, called Absecon Light, near the N. point of the island. Atlantic City was incorporated in 1854. It has 15 churches, 2 daily and 5 weekly newspaper offices, about 2000 cottages and residences, and some 400 boarding-houses and hotels. Atlantic Avenue, the principal business street, is 100 feet wide, and is crossed at right angles by many other avenues, bearing the names of the states of the Union. There are also avenues named Arctic and Pacific, extending... Read MORE...
Atlantic City, a pleasure- and health-resort of Atlantic co., N.J., 60 miles S.E. of Philadelphia, and on the Atlantic Ocean, is on a narrow sandy island called Absecon Beach, extending from Great Egg Harbor Inlet on the S.W. to Absecon Inlet on the N.E. It is the S.E terminus of the Camden & Atlantic Railroad, the West Jersey Railroad, and the Philadelphia & Atlantic City Railroad. The island is 10 miles long, 3 of a mile wide, and 4 to 5 miles from the mainland. Here is a good beach for bathing; also a first-order light-house, called Absecon Light, near the N. point of the island. Atlantic City was incorporated in 1854. It has 15 churches, 2 daily and 5 weekly newspaper offices, about 2000 cottages and residences, and some 400 boarding-houses and hotels. Atlantic Avenue, the principal business street, is 100 feet wide, and is crossed at right angles by many other avenues, bearing the names of the states of the Union. There are also avenues named Arctic and Pacific, extending... Read MORE...
1895 - While Two Hundred Were Injured Not One Was Killed. Accident At Atlantic City. A Miracle that There Was Not a Wholesale Slaughter.
Only One of the Injured in Danger of Death-A Rotten Wooden Pillar the Cause of the Catastrophe-Some Curious Incidents-The Collapse as Seen by an Eye Witness-Great Weight of the Crowd-List of the Injured-Some Baltimoreans Slightly Hurt-A Lucky Tally-Ho Party.
Atlantic City, July 11. - The gayety and bustle characteristic of this resort has given way to a degree to a feeling of depression, in consequence of last night’s disaster at Baltic Avenue Casino. It is largely tempered, however, by a devout thankfulness that the catastrophe was no worse, and, indeed, it is considered almost miraculous that hundreds were not killed outright. At the Pacific Avenue Sanitarium, where the most seriously injured are being cared for, it was reported this evening that only one of those patients was in any immediate danger of death. This is Frederick Claproth, the coronetist of Jenning’s Band of Camden. He has been several times reported dead, but is still hovering between life and death, to the wonder ... Read MORE...
Only One of the Injured in Danger of Death-A Rotten Wooden Pillar the Cause of the Catastrophe-Some Curious Incidents-The Collapse as Seen by an Eye Witness-Great Weight of the Crowd-List of the Injured-Some Baltimoreans Slightly Hurt-A Lucky Tally-Ho Party.
Atlantic City, July 11. - The gayety and bustle characteristic of this resort has given way to a degree to a feeling of depression, in consequence of last night’s disaster at Baltic Avenue Casino. It is largely tempered, however, by a devout thankfulness that the catastrophe was no worse, and, indeed, it is considered almost miraculous that hundreds were not killed outright. At the Pacific Avenue Sanitarium, where the most seriously injured are being cared for, it was reported this evening that only one of those patients was in any immediate danger of death. This is Frederick Claproth, the coronetist of Jenning’s Band of Camden. He has been several times reported dead, but is still hovering between life and death, to the wonder ... Read MORE...
1902 - FIRE RAVAGES ATLANTIC CITY - A Dozen Hotels and Over a Score of Small Buildings Gone LOSS MAY EXCEED $1,000,000
Crowd Cut Off by Flames on Pier Rescued by Boats
Firemen and Engines Sent from Philadelphia and Camden — Troops and Police Guard Burned Area — Many Looters Arrested
Special to The New York Times.
ATLANTIC CITY, April 3 — Fire of unknown origin destroyed property estimated at more than $1,000,000 here to-day in the most valuable section of the city. The track of the fire burned all of that portion
from the boardwalk between Illinois Avenue and South Carolina Avenue, extending back toward Pacific Avenue 250 feet.
In addition Young's Pier, at the foot of Tennessee Avenue, was damaged and a large part of it will have to be rebuilt. It was the most destructive fire the city has ever known, and it was only due to the arrival companies were totally unable to cope with the demands upon them.
The fire was under control before 3 o'clock this afternoon, and to-night the ruined district is being patrolled by Company L of the Third Regiment, National Guard of New Jersey, and the Morris ... Read MORE...
Crowd Cut Off by Flames on Pier Rescued by Boats
Firemen and Engines Sent from Philadelphia and Camden — Troops and Police Guard Burned Area — Many Looters Arrested
Special to The New York Times.
ATLANTIC CITY, April 3 — Fire of unknown origin destroyed property estimated at more than $1,000,000 here to-day in the most valuable section of the city. The track of the fire burned all of that portion
from the boardwalk between Illinois Avenue and South Carolina Avenue, extending back toward Pacific Avenue 250 feet.
In addition Young's Pier, at the foot of Tennessee Avenue, was damaged and a large part of it will have to be rebuilt. It was the most destructive fire the city has ever known, and it was only due to the arrival companies were totally unable to cope with the demands upon them.
The fire was under control before 3 o'clock this afternoon, and to-night the ruined district is being patrolled by Company L of the Third Regiment, National Guard of New Jersey, and the Morris ... Read MORE...
1916
Atlantic City, a city and pleasure- and health-resort of Atlantic co., N.J., 60 miles SE. of Philadelphia and on the Atlantic Ocean, is on a narrow sandy island called Absecon Beach, extending from Great Egg Harbor Inlet on the SW. to Absecon Inlet on the NE. It is the SE. terminus of the West Jersey and Seashore and the Atlantic City Rs. The island is about 10 miles long, j of a mile wide, and 4 to 5 miles from the mainland. The beach is one of the finest on the Atlantic coast of the United States, and (together with its proximity to Philadelphia and accessibility from New York) has made the city the most popular sea-side or bathing-resort of the country. Upward of 100,000 people have bathed here in the course of a single day. Atlantic City has hundreds of hotels and boarding-houses, some of the former huge caravanseries, giving accommodation to an almost constant tide of travel during the summer season. During recent years the city has also become a favorite winter- and early... Read MORE...
Atlantic City, a city and pleasure- and health-resort of Atlantic co., N.J., 60 miles SE. of Philadelphia and on the Atlantic Ocean, is on a narrow sandy island called Absecon Beach, extending from Great Egg Harbor Inlet on the SW. to Absecon Inlet on the NE. It is the SE. terminus of the West Jersey and Seashore and the Atlantic City Rs. The island is about 10 miles long, j of a mile wide, and 4 to 5 miles from the mainland. The beach is one of the finest on the Atlantic coast of the United States, and (together with its proximity to Philadelphia and accessibility from New York) has made the city the most popular sea-side or bathing-resort of the country. Upward of 100,000 people have bathed here in the course of a single day. Atlantic City has hundreds of hotels and boarding-houses, some of the former huge caravanseries, giving accommodation to an almost constant tide of travel during the summer season. During recent years the city has also become a favorite winter- and early... Read MORE...
1921 - September 7 - In Atlantic City, New Jersey, the first Miss America Pageant, a two-day event, is held.
historyorb.com
historyorb.com
1924 - BEACH HOTEL BURNS. LOSS OF $1,500,000 AT ATLANTIC CITY - TWO PERISH.
Atlantic City, N. J., Nov. 18. - With a toll of two known dead, and four missing, fire which destroyed the Bothwell Hotel and its annex, formerly the Senator, last night and for a time threatened many fine residences was burning itself out today. It was believed that danger of the flames spreading has been averted.
Nothing but the walls of the hotel remained and the casino on the famous steel pier was practically wrecked. The loss is estimated at $1,500,000.
JAMES BENNETT, 80, of New York, died shortly after midnight as the result of injuries received as he was being rescued and an unidentified woman is known to have perished. It is feared that more guests at the hotel may have lost their lives. Police Sergeant J. A. McMENANIN has also been missing since he entered the Senator last night on rescue work.
About a score of persons, most of them firemen, were injured although none but BENNETT suffered serious injury.
The cause of the fire has not been... Read MORE...
Atlantic City, N. J., Nov. 18. - With a toll of two known dead, and four missing, fire which destroyed the Bothwell Hotel and its annex, formerly the Senator, last night and for a time threatened many fine residences was burning itself out today. It was believed that danger of the flames spreading has been averted.
Nothing but the walls of the hotel remained and the casino on the famous steel pier was practically wrecked. The loss is estimated at $1,500,000.
JAMES BENNETT, 80, of New York, died shortly after midnight as the result of injuries received as he was being rescued and an unidentified woman is known to have perished. It is feared that more guests at the hotel may have lost their lives. Police Sergeant J. A. McMENANIN has also been missing since he entered the Senator last night on rescue work.
About a score of persons, most of them firemen, were injured although none but BENNETT suffered serious injury.
The cause of the fire has not been... Read MORE...
1928 - Three Buildings Burned in Atlantic City Blaze
Atlantic City, N. J., Jan. 29. - (AP) - Unable to state definitely the total damage resulting from the boardwalk conflagration here early this morning, Battalion Chiefs Johnson and Mathis gave much credit to the new high-pressure fire mains recently installed on the wooden way, in their being able to bring the fire under control. The fire razed three buildings, occupied by Cutbbert's baths, Smith's baths, the home of Safety Commissioner William S. Cuthbert and the Atlantic Foto Service. Adjoining Smith's baths is Richard's baths and the residence of Senator Emerson L. Richards which was damaged by water.
Deputy Fire Chief Leeds stated that it was plain that the fire originated in the plant of the Atlantic Foto Service midway in the block.
The Atlantic Foto Service building was the first to become enveloped in flames. When firemen arrived, their efforts were concentrated in trying to save the adjoining buildings. The films and chemicals stored in the Foto Service place made it an ... Read MORE...
Atlantic City, N. J., Jan. 29. - (AP) - Unable to state definitely the total damage resulting from the boardwalk conflagration here early this morning, Battalion Chiefs Johnson and Mathis gave much credit to the new high-pressure fire mains recently installed on the wooden way, in their being able to bring the fire under control. The fire razed three buildings, occupied by Cutbbert's baths, Smith's baths, the home of Safety Commissioner William S. Cuthbert and the Atlantic Foto Service. Adjoining Smith's baths is Richard's baths and the residence of Senator Emerson L. Richards which was damaged by water.
Deputy Fire Chief Leeds stated that it was plain that the fire originated in the plant of the Atlantic Foto Service midway in the block.
The Atlantic Foto Service building was the first to become enveloped in flames. When firemen arrived, their efforts were concentrated in trying to save the adjoining buildings. The films and chemicals stored in the Foto Service place made it an ... Read MORE...
1944 - HURRICANE HITS NEW YORK AND NEW ENGLAND COASTS. HIGH WINDS LASH JERSEY, LONG ISLAND.
...In Atlantic City, N. J., the weather bureau reported wind velocity of 65 miles an hour. A report stated Atlantic City's famous Steel Pier was split in half by mountainous waves, the Heinz Pier had been washed away and parts of the million dollar pier have been destroyed...
The Troy Record
Troy, New York
September 15, 1944
...In Atlantic City, N. J., the weather bureau reported wind velocity of 65 miles an hour. A report stated Atlantic City's famous Steel Pier was split in half by mountainous waves, the Heinz Pier had been washed away and parts of the million dollar pier have been destroyed...
The Troy Record
Troy, New York
September 15, 1944
1946 - July 25 - At Club 500 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis stage their first show as a comedy team.
wikipedia.org
July 25, 1946
wikipedia.org
July 25, 1946
Here's a list of the best places to go and things to do in Atlantic City:
Boardwalk: Start your Atlantic City adventure with a stroll along the famous Boardwalk. Stretching along the beach, the Boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. It's a great place to people-watch and take in the ocean views.
Steel Pier: This historic amusement park on the Boardwalk is a must-visit. It offers a range of rides and attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel with stunning views of the city and the ocean.
Casinos: Atlantic City is renowned for its casinos. Try your luck at iconic establishments like Caesars, Borgata, and the Tropicana. Even if you're not into gambling, these casinos often host live shows, concerts, and fine dining restaurants.
Absecon Lighthouse: Climb to the top of New Jersey's tallest lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse, dating back to 1857, also has a museum and gift shop.
Atlantic City Aquarium: Located at Gardner's Basin, the Atlantic City Aquarium is an excellent... Read MORE...
Boardwalk: Start your Atlantic City adventure with a stroll along the famous Boardwalk. Stretching along the beach, the Boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. It's a great place to people-watch and take in the ocean views.
Steel Pier: This historic amusement park on the Boardwalk is a must-visit. It offers a range of rides and attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel with stunning views of the city and the ocean.
Casinos: Atlantic City is renowned for its casinos. Try your luck at iconic establishments like Caesars, Borgata, and the Tropicana. Even if you're not into gambling, these casinos often host live shows, concerts, and fine dining restaurants.
Absecon Lighthouse: Climb to the top of New Jersey's tallest lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse, dating back to 1857, also has a museum and gift shop.
Atlantic City Aquarium: Located at Gardner's Basin, the Atlantic City Aquarium is an excellent... Read MORE...
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