What started as a modest family getaway more than three decades ago has grown into one of Rehoboth Beach’s most beloved annual traditions. A large extended family known online as “The Jones Family” has now gathered together at Rehoboth Beach for 18 consecutive years — and the group just keeps getting bigger.
It all began in 1991, when a woman named Ginger Carroll and her second cousin brought their young families to Bethany Beach. At first, two vacation homes were enough to hold everyone. But as the years passed and the group expanded, so did the need for space. By 2009, the group relocated their annual gathering to Rehoboth Beach, settling on New Castle Street, where they now occupy three homes for a full week every July.
This summer, more than 40 family members made the trip, with ages spanning from just one year old all the way to 86. They traveled from New Castle County, Elkton, Maryland, Allentown, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina to be together.
Despite the name, no one in the group actually has the last name Jones. The name comes from Ginger’s mother’s maiden name — a family known for its love of gathering — and the tradition stuck. Their Facebook group, “The Jones Family,” keeps everyone connected throughout the year.
Ginger says the group is made up of second, third, and fourth cousins. During their week at the beach, they spend their days on the sand, hold a Sunday evening church service, and organize a Five Hundred card tournament — where the winner earns not just a trophy, but also the coveted honor of being first in line at the picnics. Because there are so many of them, dinners are handled individually, but they wrap up the week together with a communal leftovers night.
“The Jones Family” is just one example of the many multigenerational groups who have made Rehoboth Beach a cherished yearly destination. Those with similar traditions who would like to share their story are encouraged to reach out by email at [email protected].
