Lucy the Elephant Makes National TV Debut on Jeopardy

South Jersey's iconic roadside attraction appeared as a clue on the popular game show.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:19am

An extreme close-up photograph of the intricate carved wooden texture and details on the exterior of Lucy the Elephant, using dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to create a sense of glamour and timeless elegance.The iconic Lucy the Elephant shines in the spotlight of her national TV debut, her weathered wooden facade capturing the timeless charm of this beloved South Jersey landmark.Millville Today

Lucy the Elephant, a beloved 65-foot-tall wooden elephant structure located in Margate, New Jersey, made a surprise appearance as a clue on the March 14, 2026 episode of the TV game show Jeopardy. While none of the contestants were able to correctly identify the 'howdah' - the seat on Lucy's back that Henry Ford and other notables have climbed - the exposure has brought renewed attention to this iconic South Jersey roadside attraction.

Why it matters

Lucy the Elephant is one of New Jersey's most famous and unique landmarks, drawing thousands of visitors each year to the Margate beachfront. As the state's oldest surviving roadside attraction, Lucy's national TV debut on Jeopardy highlights her enduring popularity and cultural significance, even 150 years after she was first built.

The details

The $2,000 Jeopardy clue asked contestants to identify the 'seat on her back' that notable figures like Henry Ford had climbed, referring to the howdah structure on Lucy's back that allows visitors to ascend the 130 stairs inside her frame. While the contestants were unable to provide the correct response, the exposure has generated renewed interest in planning visits to see Lucy in person.

  • Lucy the Elephant first opened to the public in 1881.
  • The Jeopardy episode featuring Lucy aired on March 14, 2026.

The players

Lucy the Elephant

A 65-foot-tall wooden elephant structure located in Margate, New Jersey, and one of the state's oldest and most famous roadside attractions.

Henry Ford

The renowned automobile pioneer who was among the notable historical figures to visit and climb the 130 stairs up to the howdah on Lucy's back.

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What’s next

Lucy the Elephant is currently undergoing a $350,000 restoration project to repair her interior structure, following recent work to refurbish her exterior. The attraction is expected to remain open to visitors throughout the renovation process.

The takeaway

Lucy the Elephant's surprise appearance on the popular game show Jeopardy has shone a national spotlight on this beloved South Jersey landmark, reminding viewers of the unique history and enduring appeal of one of the state's most iconic roadside attractions.