Of
all of the programmatic and zoomorphic architecture
along Route 40, Lucy stands out in many reagrds. First,
it is one of the oldest extant structures along the
road. (Actually, it's not really on the Route 40, but
it is close enough.) Second, it is one of the most unusual.
Finally, it is one of the largest, standing 65 feet
tall.
Originally built in Philadelphia in
1881, it was brought to South Atlantic City (now Margate)
by its creator James Vincent de Paul Lafferty, Jr. In
1882 Lafferty even received a patent from the U.S. government
for all buildings constructed in the shape of animals.
Over the years, Lucy has served as a real estate office,
a tourist attraction, a rental "cottage,"
a bar, boarding house, hotel, restaurant and refreshment
stand. In the 1920's postcard below, Lucy is known as
the "Elephant Hotel." After 120 years, Lucy
still stands thanks to a 1970 relocation and the work
of some dedicated and vigilant preservationists.
Lucy
is located at 9200 Atlantic Avenue in Margate City,
a few minutes south of Atlantic City (tel. 609-823-6473).
A trip to visit Lucy is well worth the time.
If you'd like to know more about Lucy, visit her
web site. (Photo on right courtesy of and ©
1998 Hoag Levins).
