In February 2024, the Borough of Longport accepted two beach-block lots on 22nd Ave donated by the late Dorothy McGee. She requested that a park be created where her original home was built.
McGee stated that she wanted a gazebo built within the park.
Longport Mayor Patrick Armstrong said he was excited about the new park and that an Amish business from Lancaster County, PA. will build the gazebo.
How did an Amish business become involved with the project?
Mayor Armstrong: “I was in Lancaster for an event with my son and saw a row of gazebos along the roadside.
I pulled into the driveway and spoke to Mervin Petershiem of The Backyard Showcase about the park and encouraged him to submit a bid. We had several quotes in the $30K range, but they were the lowest bidder at $20K and were awarded the job.”
On Thursday, April 10, a five member Amish team from Ronks, PA. arrived in Longport after a 2.5 hour drive in their flatbed truck carrying the materials to build the gazebo in one day.
Prior to their arrival, Leeds Builders of Margate installed eight 3 feet deep footers to prepare the ground for construction of the gazebo.
What type of materials and finishes are you using to build the gazebo?
Petershiem: “We regularly use wood and cedar, but in this location, vinyl was the best choice to stand up to the coastal conditions, and it is low maintenance.
This gazebo has a traditional appearance, but we also do modern and build custom customer requests. Just call the office or check out our website for what we offer.”
Alicia McGee of Galloway, daughter of Albert and Dorothy, represented the family at the groundbreaking ceremony. She grew up in Longport, went to school in Margate, attended Holy Spirit High School, served on the beach patrol, the ambulance squad, and is a mother to six children.
You’re standing on the grounds of your childhood home. What are you feeling?
McGee: ‘It feels weird. This home was 25 years of my life. My father purchased the lots in 1972. It was a beautiful four story historical home built in the 1800s.’
The home came down in 2009. I cried for days. But now this land will be forever beautiful.”
