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Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation, Inc.

1721 McKinley Avenue
609-441-9064

To create pride in our Black heritage and promote family values and unity through the celebration of African-American history in Atlantic County at Chicken Bone Beach (CBB).

African Americans who wished to enjoy the Atlantic City Beach during the period from 1900 through the early 1950's were socially restricted to the Missouri Avenue area. As thousands of vacationing Black families flocked to the shore with their chicken laden picnic hampers, the strip became affectionately nicknamed "Chicken Bone Beach". A block party atmosphere was enhanced by the visits of major Black entertainers, such as Sammy Davis Jr., "Moms" Mabley and the Club Harlem Showgirls.

The first Black Captain of the lifeguards was Captain William "Rube" Albouy. During his tenure he patrolled with a staff of 12 who ensured the safety of as many as 5,000 swimmers. Chicken Bone Beach survives as a symbol of family unity and African American brotherhood.

Casinos changed the culture of beach bathers in the late '70s by making Atlantic City into a world class resort. The Atlantic City Council passed an ordinance Wednesday August 6, 1997 declaring Chicken Bone Beach (Missouri Avenue beach) a local historical land site. Chicken Bone Beach is a symbol of unity that originated from segregation.


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