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A classic radio-style episode of the Beacon. ❤️ In loving memory of our biggest fan.
4 Sept 2026
Professor Jeff LaMonica and The Cape May Navy
Unveiling the Cape May Navy: Heroes and Battles
Explore the fascinating tales of local maritime history and heroes.
The waters off New Jersey hold stories of valor, struggle, and local legends. In this issue, we dive into the rich history of the Cape May Navy (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/cape-may-navy-south-jerseys-forgotten-privateer-fleet-fzhbe/), highlighting its notable figures and maritime skirmishes that shaped the region during the Revolutionary War.
Key Figures of the Cape May Navy
Jeffrey LaMonica sheds light on various historical characters from South Jersey involved in the Cape May Navy. Among them are:
Captain Joseph Estel:
Commanded a company of the Egg Harbor Guards.
Major Richard Westcote:
An officer recognized by a historical marker in Mays Landing.
Captain Enoch Stilwell:
Commanded the privateer schooner "Hawk" with a crew of seventy, known for its smaller, agile vessels.
These individuals represent the backbone of local resistance and naval prowess during a tumultuous time.
Historic Battles and Incidents
LaMonica recounts several noteworthy incidents, including:
The Battle of Turtle Gut Inlet:
Taking place in June 1776, this confrontation involved a Continental brig and British forces. Although not a major battle, it marked one of the earliest casualties in the war, with an explosion resulting from a British warship's grounding.
The Incident at Peck's Beach:
In 1779, a British merchant ship ran aground, leading to its cargo of rum and sugar being seized by the local militia, demonstrating the opportunism of privateers.
LaMonica describes how the Cape May Navy primarily targeted merchant ships, avoiding direct confrontations with the formidable British Navy, except on rare occasions when the odds were favorable.
Tales of Shipwrecks and Local Lore
Interestingly, LaMonica mentions the existence of shipwrecks off the coast of New Jersey, including a ship whose remnants can be seen during low tide near Mays Landing. These stories enrich the local lore and connect current residents to their maritime heritage.
"These privateers were motivated by profit and self-preservation, making them wary of engaging British warships directly." — Jeffrey LaMonica
Reflection
The narratives surrounding the Cape May Navy provide a glimpse into the resilience and resourcefulness of early American patriots. For those intrigued by maritime history or local legends, the full conversation with Jeffrey LaMonica offers deeper insights into the people and events that shaped New Jersey's coast during the Revolutionary War.
Explore more of these tales and uncover the lesser-known chapters of America's fight for independence.
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24 Aug 2026
The Home of Judge Thomas W Trenchard and The Trial of Richard Hauptmann
Narrated by Meg McCormick Hoerner.
Reach and audience
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YouTube views
128,129
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
13 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 78 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
95
Social presence
0
YouTube
82
Engagement
71
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