Along the sandy shores of Margate NJ stands an extraordinary structure that embodies both whimsy and history: Lucy the Elephant. Towering six stories high and constructed in the unmistakable shape of an elephant, Lucy is a stunning architectural marvel.
Her body, clad in tin sheeting, evokes a Victorian nostalgia, while her vibrant, expressive eyes and gracefully curving tusks add to her charm. The decorative howdah atop her back, painted in bright hues of red and gold, offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
As you approach Lucy, the summer sun casts her long shadow across the beach, creating a cool, inviting refuge from the heat. Stepping into her shade, you feel the temperature drop, offering a brief respite from the scorching rays. The sound of waves crashing nearby and the cool ocean breeze mingling with the scent of saltwater enhance the serene atmosphere. This iconic edifice has captivated the imaginations of visitors for over a century, standing as a testament to the creativity and enduring spirit of the community.
The story of Lucy the Elephant begins in 1881, when real estate developer James V. Lafferty conceived the idea of constructing an elephant-shaped building as a novel way to attract potential buyers to his properties. Designed by Philadelphia architect William Free, Lucy was built using a combination of wood and tin sheeting, and stands an impressive 65 feet tall. Her body is held together by nearly a million pieces of wood, and she is adorned with 200 kegs of nails and several tons of tin. The construction cost for Lucy was approximately $25,000, a significant sum at the time.
Originally named “Elephant Bazaar,” Lucy served multiple purposes throughout her early years. She was a promotional gimmick, a tavern, a summer home, and even a space where visitors could climb to the howdah atop her back to enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. However, as the decades passed, Lucy fell into disrepair and faced the threat of demolition in the 1960s.
In response to this threat, a dedicated group of local citizens formed the Save Lucy Committee in 1969. They spearheaded a massive fundraising campaign to restore and preserve the beloved structure. Thanks to their efforts, Lucy was moved to her current location at Decatur Avenue and the beach in 1970, a monumental feat that required significant engineering and logistical coordination.
Today, Lucy the Elephant is a National Historic Landmark and a beloved icon of the Jersey Shore.
She continues to welcome visitors from around the world, who come to explore her unique interior and learn about her fascinating history. Guided tours are available, offering guests the opportunity to ascend the spiral staircase inside Lucy’s leg, wander through her belly, and emerge in the howdah for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
Lucy is more than just a static monument; she plays an active role in the community. Throughout the year, she hosts a variety of events, from weddings and parties to educational programs and seasonal celebrations. One of the highlights is the annual “Lucy the Elephant Birthday Celebration,” which features family-friendly activities, games, and live entertainment, drawing crowds eager to celebrate another year of this historic landmark’s existence.
In addition to her role as an event venue, Lucy serves as an educational resource. The Save Lucy Committee offers programs for schools and organizations, providing insight into local history, architecture, and the importance of historic preservation. These initiatives help foster a deeper appreciation for Lucy and similar landmarks, ensuring that future generations will continue to cherish and protect them.
Lucy the Elephant is more than an architectural oddity; she is a symbol of creativity, community spirit, and resilience. Her continued existence is a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring charm of one of New Jersey’s most unique attractions. For those who visit Margate, a trip to see Lucy is not just a glimpse into the past, but a vibrant part of the present, offering a memorable experience that blends history, fun, and a touch of whimsy.
For more information:
• Lucytheelephant.org
