Absecon Inlet facts for kids
Absecon Inlet is a narrow waterway on the southeastern coast of New Jersey in the United States. It's like a natural channel that connects bigger bodies of water.
What is Absecon Inlet?
Absecon Inlet is a special water passage. It connects the huge Atlantic Ocean to smaller bays. These bays are called Absecon Bay and Reeds Bay. The inlet cuts through what are known as barrier islands. These are long, narrow islands that protect the mainland from ocean storms.
The southern side of the inlet is the northern tip of Absecon Island. This island is where the famous city of Atlantic City is located. You can see the historic Absecon Lighthouse from the inlet. It stands tall on the north end of Absecon Island.
To the north and east of the inlet is Brigantine Island. A bridge called the Brigantine Bridge crosses over the inlet. This bridge carries New Jersey Route 87, helping people travel between the islands.
The inlet also has a part called Absecon Channel. This channel helps connect Absecon Bay and Reeds Bay directly to the Atlantic Ocean.
In 1878, people described Absecon Inlet as a place where small ships could travel. It allowed boats to go in and out of Absecon and Reeds Bays. These bays were described as small bodies of water in Atlantic County. At that time, only one main stream, Absecon Creek, flowed into them.
Ships Named After the Inlet
Sometimes, ships are named after important places. Absecon Inlet has had a few ships named after it!
- USS Absecon (1918): This was a cargo ship. It was used by the United States Navy for a short time in 1918. Cargo ships carry goods and supplies.
- USS Absecon (AVP-23): This ship was a special kind of training vessel. It helped teach sailors how to use aircraft catapults. Catapults are devices that help launch airplanes quickly from a ship's deck. This ship was in use from 1943 to 1947.
- USCGC Absecon (WAVP-374): This was a United States Coast Guard cutter. Cutters are ships used by the Coast Guard for various missions, like search and rescue or law enforcement. This cutter was in service from 1949 to 1972.
