Wildwood Historical Society and Preserving the Wildwoods Merge, Launch Historic Home Recognition Program

WILDWOOD, NJ -- The architecture of the Wildwoods has been changing at an increasing pace. The welcoming appearance of cottages and homes that reflect the culture of the island is being lost, so two nonprofits have merged to honor those who preserve their properties.

The Wildwood Historical Society and Preserving the Wildwoods, two formerly separate nonprofits each focused on preserving the Wildwoods’ history, merged this year and established the Historic Home Recognition Program to celebrate homeowners who have chosen to maintain or renovate their homes to their historic appearance.

In the newly launched program, homes on Five Mile Island that have retained their historic appearance and were built before 1951 receive a certificate of recognition and a metal plaque that can be affixed to the home or displayed as a garden stake.

“From the Spanish homes of the Gables in the Crest, to the cottages with the wraparound porches, large colonial homes, and quaint Cape Cods that are throughout our island, families have made the conscious decision to retain the beauty and culture that defines the Wildwoods,” said Buck Russom, chair of the Preserving the Wildwoods committee. “With the Historic Homes Program, we can formally recognize families who have chosen to maintain the historic appearance of their homes.”

Anyone with a well preserved pre-1951 property can nominate themselves or be nominated by a friend or neighbor by filling out a form at https://www.wildwoodhistoricalmuseum.com/historical-recognition-program.

The Wildwood Historical Society and Preserving the Wildwoods merged this year to form a stronger, more unified presence in the community. This merger will enable the organizations to pool their resources and expertise to make a more significant impact in preserving the Wildwoods' history and culture.

Founded in the 1990s, Preserving the Wildwoods was originally Friends of the J. Thompson Baker House and later Partners in Preservation. Some notable accomplishments were the organization’s involvement in rescuing Holly Beach Park and the A-frame house at Bennett and Park.

As part of the merger, Preserving the Wildwoods became a committee of the Wildwood Historical Society, founded in 1963. Members can expect the same involvement initiatives and volunteer opportunities.

“We realized we are stronger together than apart,” said Wildwood Historical Society president Taylor Henry. “Preservation takes teamwork, and we are excited about what we can achieve as a united front, including the Historical Home Recognition Program.”

The Wildwood Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and recognizing the historical, cultural, and community heritage of the Wildwoods. The merged entity will continue to stand for historic preservation and education, supporting community initiatives and events that promote the Wildwoods' unique character.

The Wildwood Historical Society runs the Wildwood Historical Museum at 3907 Pacific Avenue in Wildwood, now open six days a week. To learn more, visit wildwoodhistoricalmuseum.com.