Ocean County Through Time

Ocean County, the second largest county in New Jersey, leads the state in terms of population growth over the past several decades. Long known for its beautiful barrier island beaches and inland pine barrens, many traces of yesteryear have vanished with the recent influx of people and radical remodeling of places.

Long ago the wild southern badlands of Monmouth, Ocean County broke away in 1850. After many decades of dormancy, the county now boasts one of the East Coast's most revered theme parks, five major hospitals, a minor league baseball team and stadium, one of the world's largest yeshivas, miles of pristine and preserved barrier island beach space, pine barren wilderness, a healthy manufacturing sector, and sprawling developments with their associated shopping malls.

Once sought out by individuals and communities for its isolated quiet beauty, there is no turning back for Ocean County. This book intends to serve as an armchair tour guide documenting the evolution of both well-known landmarks and back road locales for long-time residents and newcomers alike.

At age eleven, author Robert Gilinsky stumbled on a book prepared for the centennial history of his hometown, Neptune City, in his garage. This chance encounter was an embarkation point for a lifetime's journey into researching the history of New Jersey, with a special affection for those towns and hamlets closest to him. Gilinsky has published several books and articles pertaining to local history, and has a large collection of historic local collectables and publications.