Hereford Inlet facts for kids
Hereford Inlet is a natural waterway, like a wide river, that connects the ocean to the calmer waters behind the barrier islands in Cape May County, New Jersey. It's an important part of the coastline in southern New Jersey.
Where is Hereford Inlet?
Hereford Inlet acts as a natural border, separating two long, narrow islands: Seven Mile Island and Five Mile Beach. Imagine it as a watery path between them.
In 1834, people described Hereford Inlet as a passage about one to two miles wide. It was seen as the way the sea entered the calm lagoons and marshy areas along the Atlantic coast.
Later, in 1878, it was noted that Hereford Inlet borders Seven Mile Island on its south end. At that time, the inlet was about a mile wide and had seven feet of water over its sandbar. The channels nearby were known for excellent fishing. Two other waterways, Jenkins Sound and Leaming's Sound, flow out through Hereford Inlet. Also, Nummy's Island is located directly in front of it.
A Look Back in Time: History of Hereford Inlet
Hereford Inlet has been known by different names over time. On a map from around 1700 by John Thornton, it was called Little Hereford. However, by 1749, a map published by Lewis Evans showed it with its modern name, Hereford Inlet.
The Hereford Inlet Light is a famous old lighthouse located in North Wildwood. It stands on the southwestern shore of Hereford Inlet, at the northern tip of Five Mile Beach. This lighthouse was finished and started working in 1874, helping ships navigate the waters.
One of the islands near the inlet is called Nummy Island. It's named after a Native American leader, King Nummy. There's a story, which might be a legend, that King Nummy was buried on this island.
