Atlantic City’s rich Black history was celebrated on June 25 through two significant events designed to honor the city’s past while creating new opportunities for residents and visitors to explore its cultural legacy.
Mayor Marty Small, Sr., Assemblywoman Maureen Rowan, representatives from the City of Atlantic City, the State of New Jersey, and the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation gathered at Missouri Avenue and the Boardwalk to unveil a New Jersey Black Heritage Trail marker recognizing the historic significance of Chicken Bone Beach.
The New Jersey Black Heritage Trail program is administered by the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State under the leadership of New Jersey Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Dr. Dale Caldwell. The statewide initiative highlights individual, historic moments and places that have shaped Black history throughout New Jersey. Chicken Bone Beach, which served as a gathering place for African Americans during the era of segregation, is one of Atlantic City’s most important historical landmarks.
The marker is the first New Jersey Black Heritage Trail marker installed in Atlantic City. There are currently 77 sites recognized through the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail across 16 counties. The Chicken Bone Beach marker is the 16th physical marker installed as part of the program, with dozens of additional nominations under review.
Immediately following the unveiling ceremony, Mayor Small and the City of Atlantic City’s Planning & Development Department officially launched the Atlantic City Black Cultural Heritage Tour in partnership with Historic Building Architects, LLC and Fish Bowl Media.
Funded by the New Jersey Historical Commission, the interactive tour showcases many of the people, places, and institutions that have played a vital role in shaping Atlantic City’s Black history and culture. Featured locations include Chicken Bone Beach, Pop Lloyd Stadium, Fire Station No. 2, Sonny’s Barbershop, Saint James AME Church, and other historically significant sites throughout the city.
The digital experience allows users to explore locations virtually at their own pace or participate in a guided tour featuring historical information, photographs, and video testimonials from prominent members of the Atlantic City community.
The Atlantic City Black Cultural Heritage Tour is now live and available through the City of Atlantic City’s website at www.acnj.gov.
