There was visible excitement, and even a few tears of joy, during a Grand Re-Opening Preview of the Northwood Center in Cape May Point, which had been closed since last fall for a major renovation. On May 14th, more than 50 donors, volunteers, staff, and special guests gathered for the event, which coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Cape May Bird Observatory. They came to celebrate the transformation of the center and the inspiring legacy that one community can leave through its vision, commitment, and incredible generosity. Northwood Center is an oasis for nature enthusiasts that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The outpouring of support that we received for this renovation from it committed community of donors.
Fifty years ago, the Northwood Center at Cape May Point was a residential home adjacent to Lily Lake, a prime spot for migratory birds. The home had been owned by John D’arcy Northwood, a conservationist and prominent member of the birding community. His front parlor served as the office for a young Pete Dunne, New Jersey Audubon’s first hawkwatch counter, who rose to his own prominence in the birding community. In 1990, the Lily Lake residence was bequeathed to New Jersey Audubon upon the death of John’s wife, Anne Northwood, to become the Cape May Bird Observatory (CMBO) Northwood Center. Four years later, Pete became CMBO’s director, guiding its mission for nearly two decades.
For half a century CMBO has conducted bird research, conservation, environmental education, and recreational birding activities. Last winter, the center closed its doors to complete much-needed building upgrades that had been on the “wish list” for years. A major bequest to the center was the impetus for discussions with other donors who share a special connection to CMBO, and soon the transformation of organization’s Northwood Center began. “The Northwood Center is the beating heart of the Cape May Bird Observatory. Our community has long called for investment in this special place. We received a large bequest that allowed us to design the renovation. As we shared our vision and progress, our most committed donors stepped up to invest in the space and honor those who built the organization.”
Structural upgrades included electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, siding, and a new public restroom to ensure a sustainable future and improve the visitor experience. Ramping that blends into nature and provides many places to view wildlife, along with handicapped parking makes the center more accessible to all. A new back deck allows better access to the Ryan DeWitt Trail, with its diversity of colorful birds. A library was added through a generous leadership contribution made by longtime supporters, Rich and Anita Kauffeld, and was named in honor of Pete Dunne. The library includes a full selection of Pete’s books as a prominent part of its permanent collection. Pete was especially moved by this honor and proud to see that his impact and legacy will continue.
