Wildwood Breezes

History

Wildwood, NJ

Wildwood was originally incorporated as a borough by an act of the New Jersey legislature on May 1, 1895. On January 1, 1912, Wildwood was incorporated as a city. The Wildwoods began developing as a resort in the last decade of the 19th century. A building boom began in the 1950s, due partially to the construction and completion of the Garden State Parkway in 1955.“Rock Around the Clock” often credited as the first rock n’ roll record, was first performed on Memorial Day weekend in 1954 at the HofBrau Hotel in Wildwood by Bill Haley and The Comets.  The song’s status as one of the first rock and roll hits has given rise to the city’s claim as “the birthplace of rock and roll”. Chubby Checker introduced his version of “The Twist” at the Rainbow Club in Wildwood. On occasion, American Bandstand broadcast from the Wildwood’s Starlight Ballroom. Murals in the community honor Checker, Bill Haley; and Bobby Rydell.  Rydell’s major hit, “Wildwood Days”” in 1963, is about Wildwood.

Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District

Wildwood is home to over 200 motels, built during the Doo-Wop era of the 1950s and 1960s, in an area recognized by the state of New Jersey, known as the Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District. Wildwood Breezes, an original 1930’s house, is located right in the middle of where the hotel district was located. The motels are unique in appearance, with Vegas-like neon signs.  New construction in the area has seen the demolition of several motels to make room for larger condominiums. The Wildwood Doo Wop Preservation League has taken action to help save and restore these historic buildings. The Caribbean Motel in Wildwood Crest, and the Chateau Bleu in North Wildwood are both listed on the National Register of Historic Pieces. A 1950s Doo Wop museum includes property from demolished motels such as neon signs and furniture.  Neo-Doo Wop buildings in the area feature a neon lit Wawa and a 1950s styled  Acme Supermarket.