Ocean City, NJ InformationA Brief History of Ocean CityWhen Cape May County was created in 1692, its northernmost barrier island was known as Peck’s Beach. It was named for John Peck, a whaler who used the beach as a base to render out blubber from harpooned whales. In 1859, Parker Miller, reputed to be the island’s first permanent resident, was employed as an agent of marine insurance companies. He was hired to remain on Peck’s Beach to report wrecks, deter scavengers, and protect the interest of the shipping merchants. He built a house where Wards Pastry Shop now stands. On September 10, 1879, S. Wesley Lake, Ezra B. Lake, James E. Lake and William H. Burrell, all Methodist ministers, sailed to the island from Pleasantville to examine the property they were considering buying. They landed near what is now Second Street. Finding a direct route from the bay to the ocean impossible because of meadowlands, sand dunes and roaming wild cattle, they followed the water’s edge around the north point of the beach. They liked what they saw and believed it would be suitable for their plans. On the way back to their boat they stopped at a point, which is now North Street, to kneel beneath a cedar tree and pray for guidance in their new venture. They dedicated the island as a Christian seaside resort. On October 20, the Honorable Simon Lake and William B. Wood joined the other four men to incorporate their association. A month later, they named the island Ocean City. In 1884, Ocean City was incorporated as a borough, Gainer P. Moore was elected mayor and Parker Miller, Carrell Doughty, Enoch Green and William H. Burrell were elected councilmen. In 1897, the Borough of Ocean City became the City of Ocean City. Ocean City’s 128 year tradition as a family resort continues, and is reflected in the dedication to the community’s well-being that governs this town. Information provided by: The Ocean City Historical Museum The Ocean City Historical Museum is a non-profit corporation of New Jersey. The museum houses two permanent exhibits. “Sea View and Salt Air: A History of Ocean City” features a historically correct timeline that integrates artifacts and photographs from the Museum’s collection, along with large print storyboards to introduce the visitor to the history of Ocean City; the second is dedicated to the Sindia, a four-master barque that grounded itself here in 1901. This exhibit includes an 8’x 8’ stained glass window showing the ship under sail, the original figurehead, other artifacts and photographs from the ship. Temporary exhibits on special topics are also featured. The museum offers a gift shop and modern research library that includes genealogy research tools. The following information was taken from the Ocean City, NJ Visitors Guide from the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce. Click here for more information RecreationRight here in Ocean City there are plentiful recreational activities for everyone. Choose water sports like boating, sailing, fishing, surfing and swimming, or select terrestrial pursuits like tennis, golf or biking, to name a few. Participate in high-energy competitive sports by joining basketball, baseball, or volleyball teams, or grab a quick pick-up game at a neighborhood court. Youngsters love the well-equipped playgrounds found throughout the island, plus a skateboard and in-line skate park at 6th and the Boardwalk. Catch the Ocean City Baron in action as you enjoy watching exciting P.D.L. Soccer, or come out to support our local high school teams September through June. The Ocean City Division of Recreation offers field trips, educational beach walks, sports instruction, a repertory theater group for kids and adults, and a full slate of fine arts, music and arts & crafts classes all summer long. Special Events are scheduled throughout the year. These include the Spring and Fall Block Parties, a full complement of Fourth of July events, the Boardwalk Baby Parade and the incredible New Year’s Eve First Night celebration. Check out the Ocean City Tourism site for more information. At The Ocean City Community and Cultural Center, 18th Street and Simpson Avenue, you will find our outstanding public library with wireless Internet connection computers for use, old-fashioned storytelling time and a terrific selection of books, movies and CD’s. The Aquatic and Fitness Center, the Historical Museum and Arts Center are also located here, each offering events, classes and workshops throughout the year. The Ocean City Division of Recreation has been offering popular and high quality recreational programs for over 60 years. The summer of 2009 will include the following: Basketball Leagues: Gymnastics and Tumbling: Arts and Crafts: Morning Sports: Camps: Musical Theater Workshops: Tennis: Beach Surf Chairs: Motorized Wheel Chairs: Skate Board Park: Our downtown area along Asbury Avenue is open year-round. Here are some family shopping events you don’t want to miss. . .
Community Contact NumbersOcean City Airport - 399-0907 |
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