At 145 years old, Lucy the Elephant has plenty of stories to tell. Now, the beloved Margate landmark has another piece of history to add to her impressive legacy.
On Wednesday, Oct. 14, Lucy received a new State of New Jersey historical marker, recognizing her cultural significance, architectural uniqueness and enduring place in Jersey Shore history.
The marker was unveiled by the New Jersey Historical Commission and RevolutionNJ during a ceremony at Atlantic Avenue and Lucy Plaza in Margate. The recognition celebrates not only one of South Jersey’s most recognizable attractions, but also the generations of residents who have worked to preserve her.
Standing six stories tall, Lucy has watched the Jersey Shore transform around her for nearly a century and a half. Through changing neighborhoods, coastal storms and decades of development, the larger-than-life elephant has remained a beloved symbol of Margate.
Richard Helfant, executive director and CEO of the Save Lucy Committee, said that the committee is delighted and grateful.
“We are over the moon with gratitude to the New Jersey Historical Commission and Revolution NJ for recognizing what South Jersey has known for so long — Lucy is the best,” he told Shore Local News.
“She is a priceless part of the history of Margate, the Jersey Shore, the state of New Jersey, and as a National Historic landmark, the entire country.”
Lucy’s story began in 1881, when developer James V. Lafferty constructed the elephant-shaped building as an unusual way to attract potential real estate buyers to the area, then known as South Atlantic City.
Originally called the Elephant Bazaar, Lucy was designed to capture attention and encourage visitors to explore the surrounding properties.
The massive structure, measuring approximately 65 feet tall, quickly became a curiosity along the coastline. Built with a wooden framework covered in metal, Lucy featured interior rooms and a viewing platform atop her back, allowing visitors to take in the surrounding landscape.
Over time, however, Lucy became much more than a clever advertising gimmick.
She evolved into a treasured local landmark, drawing generations of families, vacationers and curious travelers to Margate. For many South Jersey residents, a childhood visit to Lucy remains a cherished Shore memory.
Her survival, though, was far from guaranteed.
By the late 1960s, Lucy had fallen into serious disrepair, and demolition appeared increasingly likely.
Rather than lose their beloved elephant, local residents organized a grassroots preservation effort that would change the course of Lucy’s history.
The Save Lucy Committee, formed in 1969 under the leadership of Edwin T. Carpenter, raised funds and rallied community support to rescue the aging landmark.
On July 20, 1970, the approximately 90-ton elephant was lifted onto a trailer and moved about 100 yards down Atlantic Avenue to her present location near Decatur Avenue.
The unusual move became a defining moment in Margate history and paved the way for extensive restoration work.
In 1976, Lucy earned designation as a National Historic Landmark, cementing her architectural and historical importance.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of that designation, making the newly unveiled state historical marker especially meaningful.
The latest recognition arrives during a milestone year for Lucy, who celebrated her 145th birthday in 2026.
“We all know how amazing Lucy is, and now the State of New Jersey does, too,” said Jason Tell, president of the Lucy the Elephant Board of Trustees, in a statement to the media.
Tell also highlighted Lucy’s national popularity, noting that readers of USA Today voted her the nation’s No. 1 roadside attraction for two consecutive years.
The landmark remains a popular destination for visitors eager to experience one of America’s most unusual historic attractions. Guests can explore the interior of the elephant, learn about her construction and preservation, and enjoy views of the surrounding Shore community.
The new historical marker adds another layer to the visitor experience, helping tell the story of Lucy’s role in the development of the Jersey Shore and the community that refused to let her disappear.
And after 145 years, Lucy is still standing tall, making memories and proving that some of the Shore’s greatest treasures are worth preserving.
Visitors can find Lucy the Elephant at 9200 Atlantic Ave. in Margate. For tour information, hours and upcoming events, visit lucytheelephant.org.
Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.
