charleswiedenmann

[charleswiedenmann]

Wildwood in the 70s - Let's go Down The Shore! News and Reviews.

Those three magic words: Remember that Summer? School’s out, and we leave the city to spend the summer in Wildwood. It was the most wonderful time of my youth. Step into the sun-soaked world of Wildwood, as the swinging seventies set the stage for a wild ride of nostalgia, freedom, and unforgettable moments. Embark on a journey to a time when the neon lights glowed, the music was great, and the…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Evolution of Wildwood's Boardwalk

Stretching for over two miles along the sandy shores of Wildwood, New Jersey, the iconic boardwalk has been a beacon of summer fun for over a century. What began as a simple wooden walkway in 1900 has evolved into one of the most vibrant and beloved seaside destinations on the East Coast, drawing millions of visitors each year. In its early days, the boardwalk was a modest path built to protect…

[charleswiedenmann]

Wildwood - 1978 & 1979 - The Dolphin Restaurant

This is an excerpt from my book, Down The Shore. North Wildwood, New Jersey – Summer, 1978 I was turning 16 years old that summer. I had had great success working as a pool boy the summer before at the El Morro Motel. But I wanted to do something else. So working as a busboy at the Dolphin Restaurant seemed like a good progression. There was a small salary plus tips and free meals, so it just…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Call of the Tram Car

As the sun begins its descent over Wildwood, a familiar sound graces the air – the unmistakable warning of the tram car carried on the sea breeze. “Watch the tram car, please.” The decision lingers in the salty air: retreat indoors and call it a day or surrender to the allure of the boardwalk’s nocturnal charm? The repetitive yet comforting announcement serves as a beckoning melody, echoing…

[charleswiedenmann]

Ghost Stories and Legends of Wildwood

While Wildwood is famous for its sun-soaked beaches and vibrant boardwalk, the island also harbors a shadowy side—a collection of ghost stories and eerie legends passed down through generations. Beneath the bright lights and festive atmosphere lies a rich history, and with it, tales of hauntings and unexplained phenomena that continue to intrigue locals and visitors alike. Hauntings in Old…

[charleswiedenmann]

Saltwater Taffy Crush

The summer of 1965 was a season of endless blue skies, the scent of sea salt in the air, and the rhythmic hum of Wildwood’s bustling boardwalk. For sixteen-year-old Tommy Russo, it was also a summer spent behind the counter of his family’s saltwater taffy shop, where the air was always thick with the sugary aroma of stretched candy and the joyful chatter of tourists. Tommy wasn’t one for crowds.…

[charleswiedenmann]

From Reruns to Reboots: How Wednesday (and Jenna Ortega) Won Me Over

I still remember the black-and-white glow of the television screen as a kid, catching reruns of The Munsters and The Addams Family in the ‘60s and ‘70s. The characters were quirky, the ideas were fun, and the performances were solid, but I never quite connected with those shows. They were clever, yes, and definitely different, but something about them didn’t grab me the way they did others. Fast…

[charleswiedenmann]

Delicious Bites on the Boardwalk

The Wildwood boardwalk isn’t just a haven for thrill-seekers and beach lovers—it’s also a paradise for foodies. From sweet treats to savory snacks, the boardwalk’s culinary offerings are as iconic as its tram car and amusement rides. Here’s a roundup of must-try boardwalk bites that have delighted generations of visitors. Curley’s Fries A trip to Wildwood isn’t complete without a stop at…

[charleswiedenmann]

Wildwood Days: Hunt's Pier - The Golden Nugget

This is an excerpt from my book, Down the Shore Wildwood, New Jersey – 1980 My day in the summer of 1980 would roll like this. I would sleep in until noon unless my dad burst through my door, telling me what a glorious day it was and that I was missing it. “Early bird gets the worm, son!” “Second mouse gets the cheese, Dad.” Then I would roll over and go back to sleep. I would get out of…

[charleswiedenmann]

Now on Audible! Take the Shore with You Wherever You Go

Great news for beach lovers, nostalgia seekers, and audiobook fans—both of my seashore books, Seashore Stories and Down The Shore, are now available on Audible! That’s right—now you can listen to my sandy, sun-soaked tales wherever you are. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, cleaning the house, taking a walk, or daydreaming about your next escape to Wildwood, just pop in your earbuds and head back…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Fishing Culture of Cape May County

Cape May County’s vibrant fishing culture is deeply rooted in its coastal heritage, offering a unique blend of tradition, adventure, and community. From the thrill of reeling in a big catch to enjoying the freshest seafood at local festivals, fishing is more than a pastime here—it’s a way of life. A Tradition of Fishing The waters surrounding Cape May County, including Wildwood, Stone Harbor,…

[charleswiedenmann]

WITNESS: The Story of a Legendary Wildwood Bar Band

I was on eBay the other day when I noticed someone had this vintage T-shirt for sale. I used to have one, but mine was black. I remember walking along the boardwalk in Venice, California, in 1982, wearing that shirt, and someone recognized the shirt. I was surprised somebody 3000 miles away from Wildwood knew Witness. (Just for the record, the locals call that part of Venice “the boardwalk,” but…

[charleswiedenmann]

Message In A Bottle

This is an excerpt from my latest book, Seashore Stories. In the summer of 1972, ten-year-old Emily Parker was spending her vacation with her family in Wildwood, New Jersey. It was their annual tradition—a week spent by the sea, soaking up the sun, eating saltwater taffy, and building sandcastles. But this year, something felt different to Emily. Maybe it was because she was getting older, or…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Wildwood Baby Parade: A Timeless Tradition

Few events capture the charm and nostalgia of Wildwood’s past quite like the annual Baby Parade. For over a century, this beloved tradition has delighted locals and tourists, offering a unique celebration of community, creativity, and family. First held in 1909, the Wildwood Baby Parade quickly became a cherished summer event, drawing crowds to the boardwalk to admire the youngest members of the…

[charleswiedenmann]

Overcast Skies in Wildwood

This is an excerpt from my book, Down the Shore North Wildwood, New Jersey – 1977-1978 Every morning when you woke up in your bed at the seashore, normally the first thing you heard was the distant cry of a seagull. It was a grounding sound that let you know you weren’t in the city anymore. Back in 1977, I’d get up every morning, 7 days a week, and go to my job at the El Morro Motel where I…

[charleswiedenmann]

Forever Wildwood - Sandcastles

In the realm where the sun meets the Wildwood shore, a timeless art unfolds – the creation of sandcastles. Beyond the child’s play, it’s a profound reflection of life’s transient beauty, a delicate dance with the elements that mirror the ebb and flow of our own existence. As hands meet grains of sand, the process begins – a symphony of imagination and creation. Each castle, a unique embodiment…

[charleswiedenmann]

Exploring Cape May County’s Natural Beauty

Cape May County, New Jersey, is more than just a beach destination—it’s a haven for nature lovers. From serene parks to wildlife sanctuaries, the area offers countless opportunities to connect with the natural world. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, hiker, or simply seeking tranquility, Cape May County’s natural beauty will leave you inspired. Cape May Point State Park Located at the southernmost…