By Cindy Christy Fertsch
Who would have imagined that seeing an article in a Popular Mechanics magazine on how to build your own surfboard could lead to a successful business spanning generations?
That was the moment that ultimately led to Heritage Surf & Sport Shop, which is now celebrating its 60th year in business.
Never mind that the surfboard broke in half on its first time out. East Coast Surfing Hall of Famer Dan Heritage persisted, perfecting his craft until he was manufacturing surfboards on a full-time basis.
The business, originally named Little Wave Surf Shop, opened in 1962 in Sea Isle City. It quickly became a family endeavor, with Dan’s wife Barbara heading the retail end of things, and their children Brian and Tracy becoming increasingly involved.
Dan’s father, Paul Heritage, an artist and advertising photographer, used his skills to design the family crest logo for the first Heritage Surfboard decal. He also suggested that the name of the store be changed to the family name, Heritage.
More than six decades later, Heritage Surf and Sport Shop still serves Sea Isle City as one of its four locations. Heritage has two locations in Ocean City, with one on West Avenue and another on the Boardwalk at 14th Street. The fourth location is on Ventnor Avenue in Margate.
Today, Brian Heritage, his wife Jamie and children, Brooke and Brett, head the Sea Isle Shop. Tracy and her husband Jim Hennessy oversee the Ocean City shops with the help of their now adult children Brittany, Cory, Taylor and Dara. Lifelong friend and employee Randy Young leads the Margate shop.
In February of 1996, Dan Heritage was inducted into Greg Noll’s East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame. Sadly, Dan passed away in February of 1997. However, Heritage Surf and Sport continues to thrive on the determination and pride established by its founder.
During the pandemic, while many retail shops struggled, Heritage Surf & Sport continued to grow.
“We didn’t know what to expect with the pandemic. But the level of appreciation was so great,” said Hennessy. “After the initial lockdown, when we opened our doors, people were waiting to get in. We didn’t see that coming and it was wonderful.”
Heritage Surf & Sport also offers surfing lessons to youths and adults, privately and in groups.
“We are passionate about the lessons,” said Hennessy. “It’s about more than surfing. It saves lives, teaching people how to survive in the water and what to do if caught in a rip current.”
Private and group lessons are offered Monday through Friday. There is also a Women’s Club and a Travel Club. You can learn more at heritagesurf.com.
Heritage also showcases a team of elite athletes who not only compete and represent Heritage but also help shape its brand and community.
“Once you are on the team, you are on for life,” said Hennessy. “Surfing and skating are extremely physical, invigorating sports. These are top athletes that may even go to the Olympics.”
Heritage Surf & Sport is woven into the fabric of the community and believes strongly in giving back. They have and continue to support local charities.
“Food insecurity is a big issue in Atlantic, Cape May, and Gloucester counties. Eighteen percent of kids experience this,” said Hennessy. “That is why we support the Community Food Bank of New Jersey – Southern Branch.”
“We all have a list of places we want to visit when we are down the Shore,” says Hennessy. “We are honored to be on so many of your lists.”
If you would like more information about Heritage Surf & Sport visit https://www.heritagesurf.com/
