## The Early Days: From Anglesea to Wildwood
Back in 1870, a small group of fishermen became the first white settlers on this barrier island, naming their new home “Angelsea.” Picture this: just a handful of hardy souls making their living from the sea, with little more than fishing boats and simple dwellings dotting the landscape. The island remained largely untouched until 1874, when everything began to change.
That year marked a turning point with the arrival of the railroad from Cape May to Angelsea, along with a bridge that allowed horse-drawn carriages access to the island. Suddenly, this remote fishing outpost wasn’t so remote anymore.
Local Tip: You can still see remnants of Wildwood’s fishing heritage at the marina areas near Sunset Lake, where some of the original fishing families continue their trade today.
## The Vision Takes Shape
The real transformation began in 1893 when developer Philip Baker founded the Wildwood Improvement Company. Baker had big dreams — he envisioned transforming this quiet fishing village into a bustling seaside resort that would attract visitors from major cities like Philadelphia and New York. His timing was perfect, as Americans were just beginning to embrace the idea of seaside vacations.
By 1905, the former Anglesea had been renamed and subdivided into what we now know as the five Wildwoods: Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, North Wildwood, West Wildwood, and Diamond Beach. Each area began developing its own character while maintaining that welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that defines the region today.
## Birth of the Boardwalk Era
The early 1900s saw the construction of several small boardwalks connecting hotels, guesthouses, and businesses in Anglesea, Holly Beach, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest. These weren’t the entertainment destinations we know today — they were purely practical walkways designed to keep visitors’ feet dry and sandy while moving between establishments.
The original boardwalks were simple wooden planks, a far cry from today’s 1.8-mile entertainment complex that houses Morey’s Piers, Raging Waters, and Ocean Oasis waterparks.
As more visitors discovered Wildwood’s beautiful beaches and mild climate, the town continued to evolve. The railroad brought day-trippers and week-long vacationers, while local entrepreneurs opened shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues to serve them.
## The Modern Resort Emerges
Throughout the mid-1900s, Wildwood’s reputation as a family destination grew steadily. The free beaches — no beach tags required, unlike many other Jersey Shore towns — made it accessible to families of all budgets. The famous doo-wop architecture began appearing in the 1950s and 60s, giving the town its distinctive retro charm that still attracts visitors today.
The transformation from fishing village to resort town wasn’t just about buildings and businesses — it was about creating a community that understood hospitality. Many of the families who came to Wildwood as entrepreneurs in those early days put down roots, establishing the locally-owned businesses that still define the town’s character.
Local Tip: Take a stroll through the Doo Wop Experience museum to see how Wildwood’s unique architectural style developed during its mid-century boom years.
Today, Wildwood’s year-round population of about 5,300 swells to over 250,000 during peak summer season — a testament to how successfully Baker’s original vision came to life. The town has managed to maintain its family-friendly atmosphere while adapting to modern vacation expectations, offering everything from thrilling amusement rides to quiet beach relaxation.
This rich history lives on in every corner of Wildwood, from the vintage motels that line the streets to the family-owned businesses that have served multiple generations of visitors. When you stay in Wildwood, you’re not just visiting a resort — you’re becoming part of a story that’s been unfolding for over 150 years.
Stay Steps from Historic Wildwood
Five locally owned hotels plus private Airbnb rentals — all within walking distance of the boardwalk.