501 Beach Avenue (Lafayette Hotel)

Building Name:  Lafayette Hotel
Address:  501 Beach Avenue
Architect:  Unknown
Builder: Unknown
Year:  1884
Type:  Commercial
Style: Italianate Motifs
Current Status: Demolished
Historic American Building Survey (HABS) number:  NJ-745
Material of Construction:  Frame sheathed in clapboards
Shape and Dimensions of Structure:   (Irregular, semi-H shape; 4 stories; flat roof; 1-story porch across front facade
Exterior Features of Note:  Segmentally-arched windows; 3rd story balconies; overhanging eaves supported by large
brackets
Major Alterations and Additions:  Altered ca. 1919-1920; demolished 1971

The demolition of this prized inn led to the formation of the Historic Preservation Commission in Cape May.