Dating back to 1693, Somers Point is the oldest settlement in Atlantic County, NJ. Formerly known as Somerset Plantation, the town’s name comes from the Somers family, who were among the first settlers in the area. Historical landmarks commemorating the Somers family can be found throughout the City
The four square miles that make up Somers Point became its own borough in 1886. Its access as a port of call via the Great Egg Harbor Bay and proximity to the seaside destinations of Ocean City and Atlantic City prompted its rapid growth as a residential and business community.
For more information on the history of Somers Point visit somerspointhistory.org.
Somers Mansion
1000 Shore Road, Somers Point, NJ 08244
609-927-2212
Somers Mansion was built between 1720 and 1726 by Richard Somers and is the oldest existing house in Atlantic County. The Mansion contains many objects of local historical interest, including a collection of textiles with local quilts and woven coverlets as well as many early samplers. The Mansion is furnished as it might have been during the Somers’ era, with some pieces even used by the Somers family in the Eighteenth Century. The Mansion remained in the Somers Family until 1937 when it was deeded to The Atlantic County Historical Society. In 1941, it was transferred to the State of New Jersey and is a State Historic Site.
Atlantic County Historical Society
907 Shore Road, Somers Point, NJ 08244
609-927-5218
The mission of the Atlantic County Historical Society is to encourage the study of local history and genealogy and to disseminate this information to our members and the general public. To fulfill its mission, the Society publishes an annual journal of local history and genealogy as well as a quarterly newsletter. Other means include lectures, field trips, partnerships with local libraries and school districts, library and museum interpretative exhibits, and guided tours of its circa 1790 oysterman’s farmhouse, the Risley Homestead located in Northfield, New Jersey.
Somers Point Historical Society
745 Shore Road, Somers Point, NJ 08244
609-927-2900
The Somers Point Historical Society’s purpose is to preserve and promote the history of Somers Point, past and present. It provides publications and a variety of programs using guest speakers and photo archives and works on projects that promote the preservation of history in the community. The public is always welcome to take part in historical society programs or to lend expertise or skill to accomplish its objectives. Donated items related to Somers Point are appreciated at any time. The Somers Point Historical Museum is open 10 AM to1 PM on Saturdays in June, July and August. Additional hours in July and August are 7-9 PM on Tuesday evenings. Access to the museum is also available any time by request.
Somers Point Patriot Park
Bethel Road and Veterans Way, Somers Point, NJ 08244
Established in 2002, this small park, just a short walk from the Somers Point Submarine Veterans Memorial, honors those who have served and died in military service. Many donated bricks with names of those who have served line the walkway in an act of remembrance. Veteran ceremonies throughout the year are held here including the annual Memorial Day Ceremony, 9/11 Ceremony and POW/MIA Awareness Ceremony.
Somers Point Submarine Veterans Memorial
502 Bethel Road, Somers Point, NJ 08244
The Somers Point Submarine Veterans Memorial is centered around an authentic World War II-era Mach 14 torpedo mounted on an elevated brick pedestal. The walkway surrounding the torpedo pedestal is made of the donor bricks in a design layout created by students at ACIT in Mays Landing. During World War II, 52 U.S. submarines were lost more than 3,500 men went down with these submarines. The U.S. Submarine Force suffered the highest percentage of lives sacrificed in all branches of the U.S. military service during the war. This memorial seeks to honor those men as well as all veterans and the men and women of today’s military.
The Patriots for the Somers Mansion
The Patriots For The Somers Mansion was established to preserve The Somers Mansion site, encourage heritage tourism, and expand opportunities for locals and tourists alike to learn about the history of Atlantic County’s oldest building.
