In Atlantic City, New Jersey, There Is A ‘Chicken Bone Beach’

In Atlantic City, New Jersey, There Is an actual “Chicken Bone Beach.” It’s as real today as it was during the days of the “Jim Crow” era.

What Is “Chicken Bone Beach”?

City of Atlantic City — Edward Lea photo.

First, the history of “Chicken Bone Beach” in Atlantic City is the colloquial name that it was given during the troubling days of segregation.

“Chicken Bone Beach” was a designated African American section of the Atlantic City, New Jersey shoreline during the Jim Crow era.

The exact location is Missouri Avenue and the Beach.

Why Was It Segregated?

Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation photo.

According to Google, who took it straight from the pages of the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation:

Why it was segregated: Although Black and white residents lived and used the beaches together after the Civil War, hotel owners pushed Black beachgoers down to Missouri Avenue around 1900 to appease guests from the Jim Crow South.

How Did It Become Known As “Chicken Bone Beach”?

Google Maps — Missouri Avenue, Atlantic City.

It became to be known as “Chicken Bone Beach” because African American beachgoers brought their own fried chicken picnics, as most of the restaurants in Atlantic City refused to serve them.

Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small

City of Atlantic City — Edward Lea photo.

On Thursday, June 25, 2026, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small and other city leaders, state officials, community members, and the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation came together at Missouri Avenue and the Boardwalk.

Unveiling of Atlantic City's First State of New Jersey Black Heritage Trail Marker

City of Atlantic City — Edward Lea photo.

The ceremony honored the legacy of the historic “Chicken Bone Beach.”

African Americans In Atlantic City Do Not Run from The Past of “Chicken Bone Beach” — They Embrace It

City of Atlantic City — Edward Lea photo.

Yesterday’s event was a dual event  … as it also served as the official launch of the Atlantic City Black Cultural Heritage Tour.

”It’s an interactive experience that highlights the people, places, and stories that helped shape our city and left a lasting impact,” said Mayor Small.

“Both of today's events remind us that preserving and sharing these stories is essential to understanding what makes Atlantic City so special,” said Small.

City of Atlantic City — Edward Lea photo.

City of Atlantic City — Edward Lea photo.

City of Atlantic City — Edward Lea photo.

City of Atlantic City — Edward Lea photo.

SOURCE: City of Atlantic City, Mayor Marty Small & the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation.