History
Cape May MAC was formed in September, 1970 by a small group of Cape May citizens with the express purpose of rescuing the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate from demolition. Their campaign to preserve not only the Physick Estate but Victorian architectural treasures throughout Cape May has played a vital role in revitalizing the nation's oldest seaside resort. Early efforts included guided walking tours of the historic district, interpreting Cape May's Victorian heritage. Soon, trolley tours and historic house tours were added. Equally important, Cape May MAC's founders launched special events that are still celebrated: Victorian Weekend in 1973, always starting on Columbus Day Weekend in October; and since 1974, Christmas Candlelight House Tours, which put Cape May on the map as a major holiday destination.
Specialties
Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) is a multi-faceted non-profit organization that promotes the restoration, interpretation and cultural enrichment of greater Cape May for its residents and visitors. With a membership of more than 3,200, a paid staff of 160 and some 300 volunteers, Cape May MAC offers a year-round calendar of tours and special events that serves more than 300,000 people each year. Through its sponsorship of cultural and heritage tourism, Cape May MAC has helped transform Cape May from a