The Famous & Intriguing ‘Ghost Tracks’ of Cape May

The "ghost tracks" in Cape May refer to the remnants of the Bethlehem Steel Company's railroad tracks that were once used to transport materials and goods. Here are some key facts about them:

1. **Historical Background**: These tracks were part of the larger industrial network of the Bethlehem Steel Company, which was one of the largest steel producers in the United States during the 20th century.

2. **Location**: The tracks are located in Cape May, New Jersey, specifically along the beach area. They have become exposed and visible due to coastal erosion and shifting sands.

3. **Current Condition**: The tracks are often referred to as "ghost tracks" because they appear and disappear with the changing tides and shifting sands, giving them an eerie, ghostly presence.

4. **Cultural Significance**: These tracks are a reminder of the industrial past of the region and have become a point of interest for both locals and tourists. They symbolize the transient nature of human-made structures in the face of natural forces.

5. **Visibility**: The visibility of the tracks can vary significantly. They are most often seen after storms or during certain tidal conditions when the sand is shifted away, exposing the metal rails.

6. **Preservation and Interest**: While not preserved as a formal historical site, the tracks are of interest to historians, photographers, and beachgoers who appreciate the intersection of natural and industrial history.

These "ghost tracks" serve as a poignant reminder of the once-thriving industrial activity in the region and the power of natural forces to reclaim and reshape the landscape.