No. 68 

As we start the New Year – 2024, here is an undated photo view showing the entry into Stone Harbor via the causeway from Cape May Court House and the mainland.  I do actually find this to be an interesting photo even though there are no people or any real action occurring.  Judging from the two automobiles in this image, it seems that from what I can tell is that the vehicles date back approximately to the latter 1940s or possibly even the early 1950s.  Besides the age of the cars, it’s really hard to determine a more precise date since there are very few other visual clues or features to assist us.

To begin, I would ask you this question: What are your eyes drawn to first and foremost when viewing this photo?

I do not know about you and what attracted your attention first, but for me I am drawn immediately and seem to literally enter the photo by way of the set of railroad tracks in the lower left portion of this image.

Assuredly at the time of this photo, there no longer was any rail service actually entering into Stone Harbor from the mainland.  However we can see that the tracks veer off to the right and cross the roadway for freight deliveries to the Stone Harbor Lumber Yard (see sign on side of the large dark building) prominently shown here. 

Next, I guess I would direct your attention to some other key features captured in this image.  What else do you see?  Starting on the far left in the distant background you might be able to see the town’s second water tower that was built in 1940-41.  In contrast with the profile or silhouette of the older and original water tower, this larger capacity water holding tank sits upon or atop 4 supporting legs and is easily recognized.

Shifting your gaze to the right at this time, and while difficult to see, is the draw bridge that crossed over the channel and provided the connection and entry to Stone Harbor via 96th Street.

In addition, one can just barely discern the highest part of the Shelter Haven Hotel in the background just across the bridge and to the right at the intersection of Third Avenue and 96th Street.

Yet another element of change can be noted by the placement of electric power/phone poles lining the right or south side of the Stone Harbor Boulevard shown here.

Essentially this was the very view that greeted many who traveled to and visited Stone Harbor over the years.  At the time this photo was taken, Stone Harbor was not yet developed with very many houses and businesses lining the very roadway into town.  Surely there are some of you who are old enough upon searching your memory banks who just may be able to conjure up recollections of this very image!  Isn’t it neat to travel down memory lane every once in a while?  Looking in the rear-view mirror often serves to delight us with fond memories and this is one of the expressed purposes of these written and pictorial accounts.