Early Ocean Grove/Asbury Park [Part 8 - The Spectacular History of the New Jersey Shore]

The founders of Ocean Grove and Asbury Park were pioneers in the development of seaside communities and vacation resorts.
In 1868, a few miles down the beach from Long Branch, a small group of Methodist Ministers, including the Rev. William B. Osborn, set out on a mission. In search of a place where families of like mind, could pitch their tents, and for a little while each summer, enjoy the warm salty air. In December of that year, The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association of the Methodist Episcopal Church was officially formed. By 1879, there were over 700 tents on the property. The Grove was becoming known as “little canvas village”.
By 1872, 300 cottages had been built on the grounds. Anyone who accepted a lease agreed to certain regulations. Despite the rigid guidelines and protocol set forth, Ocean Grove was a peaceful,
joyous setting. A place full of laughter, good-natured smiles, and the cheerful play of little children. . The aim of the association was to keep its eye on the glory of God.
After successful New York brush manufacturer James A. Bradley, attended one of Ocean Grove’s Camp Meetings in 1870, he became interested in purchasing a 500 acre tract of briars and swamp on the north side of the Wesley Lake. After assembling a group of investors, he got Asbury Park incorporated. From its very beginnings, Asbury Park was described as an idyllic resort, peaceful, quiet and genteel.
Large crowds were soon paddling in the shallow waters of the Atlantic Ocean, sitting high and dry on the sand, or looking on from one of the many lively pavilions.
In 1875, trains began to arrive at the new Asbury Park/Ocean Grove station, and by 1889 there were nearly 200 hotels and boarding houses, along with over 800 private residences.
Music Credits:
Bortex - Determination
The 126ers - Wide Awake
Silent Partner - Succotash
Bortex - Attainment

[@carolyearsley]

Proud to call these two places my home towns.

[@historyofthejerseyshore]

Smart choice :)

[@Thecorgially]

Spent many a summer with family in Asbury on the boardwalk and beach.

[@pattyoconnell1950s]

I wish people would respect God again.
I live in a apartment bldg
A very nice pool is available
But decency doesn’t exist.
The people don’t seem to know what decency means.
I know if Jesus appeared suddenly they would know.

[@DovZeev]

I love how Ocean Grove was about limiting fun even from the very beginning lol. Such a boring little town

[@leolo2222]

I live nearby, it's hardly boring.