The Bridgeton Beacon

The Bridgeton Beacon is the soapbox and megaphone for commerce, culture, cuisine, and local causes. Enjoy our longform conversations with South Jersey luminaries. Or, collaborate with us by launching your own niche podcast or video project. The Bridgeton Beacon is an NJ 501c3 charitable organization, founded to promote economic development, and history in South Jersey.

  1. Sep 4

    Professor Jeff LaMonica and The Cape May Navy

    Unveiling the Cape May Navy: Heroes and Battles Explore the fascinating tales of local maritime history and heroes. The waters off New Jersey hold stories of valor, struggle, and local legends. In this issue, we dive into the rich history of the Cape May Navy, highlighting its notable figures and maritime skirmishes that shaped the region during the Revolutionary War. Key Figures of the Cape May Navy Jeffrey LaMonica sheds light on various historical characters from South Jersey involved in the Cape May Navy. Among them are: Captain Joseph Estel: Commanded a company of the Egg Harbor Guards. Major Richard Westcote: An officer recognized by a historical marker in Mays Landing. Captain Enoch Stilwell: Commanded the privateer schooner "Hawk" with a crew of seventy, known for its smaller, agile vessels. These individuals represent the backbone of local resistance and naval prowess during a tumultuous time. Historic Battles and Incidents LaMonica recounts several noteworthy incidents, including: The Battle of Turtle Gut Inlet: Taking place in June 1776, this confrontation involved a Continental brig and British forces. Although not a major battle, it marked one of the earliest casualties in the war, with an explosion resulting from a British warship's grounding. The Incident at Peck's Beach: In 1779, a British merchant ship ran aground, leading to its cargo of rum and sugar being seized by the local militia, demonstrating the opportunism of privateers. LaMonica describes how the Cape May Navy primarily targeted merchant ships, avoiding direct confrontations with the formidable British Navy, except on rare occasions when the odds were favorable. Tales of Shipwrecks and Local Lore Interestingly, LaMonica mentions the existence of shipwrecks off the coast of New Jersey, including a ship whose remnants can be seen during low tide near Mays Landing. These stories enrich the local lore and connect current residents to their maritime heritage. "These privateers were motivated by profit and self-preservation, making them wary of engaging British warships directly." — Jeffrey LaMonica Reflection The narratives surrounding the Cape May Navy provide a glimpse into the resilience and resourcefulness of early American patriots. For those intrigued by maritime history or local legends, the full conversation with Jeffrey LaMonica offers deeper insights into the people and events that shaped New Jersey's coast during the Revolutionary War. Explore more of these tales and uncover the lesser-known chapters of America's fight for independence. https://BridgetonBeacon.com

    Professor Jeff LaMonica and The Cape May Navy
  2. Jun 16

    Deck Builder in Vineland NJ | Pete's Carpentry

    Looking for a deck builder in Vineland, NJ or Cumberland County? In this episode of the Bridgeton Beacon, host Meg McCormick Hoerner speaks with Pete Fury of Pete's Carpentry, a South Jersey craftsman with more than 25 years of experience helping homeowners improve and maintain their properties. Pete discusses custom deck construction, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, window replacement, tiling, and the importance of working with a licensed and insured local contractor. Whether you're planning a new outdoor living space, replacing an aging deck, or tackling a larger renovation project, this episode offers practical advice from someone who has spent decades serving South Jersey homeowners. Pete's Carpentry serves homeowners throughout: Vineland, NJBridgeton, NJMillville, NJCumberland CountySouth JerseyPete's Carpentry Services include: Custom Deck ConstructionDeck RepairsKitchen RemodelingBathroom RemodelingWindow ReplacementTilingGeneral CarpentryHome Improvement Projects📞 Call or Text: 856-305-4598 https://www.cumberlandcountynj.gov https://www.bridgetonbeacon.com https://www.bridgetonbeacon.com/business A professionally designed deck can: Expand your outdoor living spaceCreate a gathering place for family and friendsImprove backyard functionalityIncrease curb appealAdd long-term property valueThe Bridgeton Beacon is a nonprofit community media initiative highlighting local businesses, nonprofits, community leaders, history, arts, culture, and economic development throughout Cumberland County and South Jersey.

    Deck Builder in Vineland NJ | Pete's Carpentry

About

The Bridgeton Beacon is the soapbox and megaphone for commerce, culture, cuisine, and local causes. Enjoy our longform conversations with South Jersey luminaries. Or, collaborate with us by launching your own niche podcast or video project. The Bridgeton Beacon is an NJ 501c3 charitable organization, founded to promote economic development, and history in South Jersey.

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