Learn More About The Museum of Cape May County

We are proud of our long term commitment to our mission of “Bringing the past to future generations through our shared Cape May County history”

The Cape May County Historical & Genealogical Society (CMCHGS), doing business as The Museum of Cape May County, was founded in 1927 as a private, non-profit organization by a number of local families who wanted to ensure the history of Cape May County was preserved and documented. In 1930 the CMCHGS established a museum and genealogical library which were housed in the basement of the County Court House building for 45 years.

In 1976, the current facility, the Cresse-Holmes House containing eleven rooms along with a five-room barn was purchased to accommodate the growing collection. By 1988 the construction and dedication of the genealogical library and administrative offices had taken place. In the last 90 years, thanks to the generosity of many individuals and families with a connection to Cape May County. the collections have grown to contain many thousands of Cape May County artifacts and documents.

Today the museum and library are run by full time, part time and seasonal staff members along with an enthusiastic group of active volunteers to assist with greeting visitors, guiding tours, researching, assisting with programs, and staffing events.

The CMCHGS is a New Jersey non-profit corporation operating as a 501c 3 under the federal tax code. It relies on self-generated funds and, increasingly, donations and other planned giving to help fulfill the letter and spirit of our mission.

The CMCHGS is governed by a Board of Trustees and principal officers that are elected by the CMCHGS membership.

Board of Trustees 2024

• Howard Aaronson

• Curtis Corson, Jr.

• F. Nathan Doughty, Jr.

• Phil Heck

• Bobbi Hornbeck, Ph.D.

• Jacquelyn Kyle

• Alex Powers

• Stanley Sperlak

• Justin Turner, Esq.

• Barbara Whitlock

• Leatrice Westcott

Officers of the Board 2024

• President - F. Nathan Doughty, Jr.

• Vice President - Bobbi Hornbeck, Ph.D.

• Secretary - Open

• Treasurer - Phil Heck

 Trustees Emeritus 

• Donna Matalucci

• J. P. Hand

• Michael Shaw

• John Turner