The Legacy of Chicken Bone Beach

Chicken Bone Beach is a cherished symbol of resilience and community in Atlantic City’s history. During the era of segregation, this stretch of beach on the city’s coastline became a haven for African Americans, where families gathered and cultural icons like Duke Ellington and Sammy Davis Jr. would perform and relax. Though segregation separated this section of the shore, Chicken Bone Beach thrived as a lively cultural center for African Americans around 1900, filled with community spirit, legendary performers, and Black-owned businesses. Despite these barriers, it symbolized resilience and was recognized as a historic landmark in 1997. Today, annual jazz concerts honor its legacy. Today, Chicken Bone Beach stands as a powerful reminder of the city’s rich African American heritage and is celebrated through events and programs that honor its legacy and keep its story alive for future generations.