1860s Civil War Era Sketch of Cape May, New Jersey

A curious c. 1862 American Civil War era view of Cape May, New Jersey. The view focuses on what we believe to be the Cape May lighthouse during the American Civil War (1861 - 1865).

A Closer Look

The view looks roughly eastward from Cape May Point. A Civil War army encampment appears in the foreground. At sea, several ships, including sailing ships and a paddlewheel steamship, are recognizable. Also recognizable is a small battery in the background.

Why do with think this is Cape May

We are not 100% certain. However, the shape of the lighthouse, the keeper's house, and the rightward sweep of the cape are distinctive. Other suggestions have been the Pensacola Light House and the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. None of the options is exact, and artistic license may have been taken. If any reader has further information, please send it along and we will re-evaluate.

Rhoads and Sons Paper

The paper bears a circular blind stamp in the upper right bearing a crown and reading 'Rhoads and Sons London'. This refers to Thomas Rhoads, a London-based paper manufacturer (not to be confused with the Pennsylvania company 'J. E. Rhodes and Son'). The firm was active from roughly 1833 through 1880 - somewhat dating this map. They were best known for heavy stock stationery, ideal for sketch art, watercolors, pen and ink, and similar work. Rhoads papers were widely distributed in the United States from the 1850s.