It Was Only Yesterday (10/05)

OK folks; raise your hand if you know when we celebrated the first ''Brielle Day''. Give up? Well, our records indicate we enjoyed our 33rd annual get-together this year, the first Brielle Day having occurred in September 1973. Local lore states, ''It never rains on Brielle Day'.' True so far as over the years we have been blessed with fair weather. Once, in 1983, a Sunday rain date was established, but turned out to be unnecessary. None has been declared since. In early Brielle Days, activities started with a parade along Union Avenue then up Union Lane to Brielle Park. There were two bands, the Wall High School Band and a mummer's type string band. There were floats, dignitaries, emergency equipment, etc. After the parade, we enjoyed a town festival at the park. There were a number of crafters there, actually working in their crafts, i.e. chair caning, carving of decoys, etc. They no doubt had items for sale or would take orders. Local painters also displayed their work. Recorded music was broadcast to the crowd all day from the ''fair center'' where the disc jockey could also announce an event, lost kids, etc.
There were pony rides, pony cart rides, and a miniature train ride for the kids. Each local organization set up a table to advertise their role in town activities and would sell items to raise funds. Many organizations sold food. The library conducted a book sale, in the remains of the Loughran showroom. This structure was later incorporated into the new library. The Brielle Cyclery sponsored a bicycle race in the afternoon. It was mostly a local Brielle event although some other nearby residents or friends might join with us.

Changes and growth came along through the years. The attendance grew from a few thousand in the beginning to something in excess of 20,000 this past Brielle Day. As time went on, more and more crafters arrived to sell goods. The Union Landing Historical Society originally hosted them, but in later years the Brielle Woman's Club took charge of that event. For a year or two we enjoyed a sing-along of the old favorites accompanied by June Weiss at the piano delivered in a truck. One memorable Brielle Day, a NJ Indian tribe was invited to demonstrate some of their ancient customs. This included twelve of their braves sitting on the ground and playing war chants etc on a huge low drum measuring about 24'' in height and about ten feet in diameter. The sound could probably be heard for several miles. In olden days this could have made those of a different tribal persuasion somewhat nervous. The library has continued to sell books. For a time there were square dancing demonstrations.

Different contests and games for kids developed over the years. Since its inception, many groups have participated in Brielle Day including Bayberry Garden Club, Brielle Boy Scout Troop 63, Brielle Chamber of Commerce, Brielle Community Association, Brielle Cyclery, Brielle Environmental Commission, Brielle Fire Company #1, Brielle First Aid Squad, Brielle Library Association, Brielle Men's Club, Brielle PTO, Brielle Woman's Club, The Church in Brielle, Deborah Hospital Foundation, Jersey Shore Audubon Society, Junior Woman's Club, Manasquan Football Club, Manasquan-Wall Jaycees, Manasquan Kiwanis Club, New Jersey Chamber Singers, Ocean Artists Group,
Manasquan River Group of Artists, Monmouth County Rifle & Pistol Association, Shiloh Baptist Church, Point Pleasant Hospital Guild, Riverview Seniors, Spring Lake- Brielle Rotary Club, St. Denis PTA, Union Landing Historical Society, Union Landing Woman's Club, and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10103. Also for as long as anyone can remember, the Fire Company has provided rides on the fire trucks for the kids. This has also proved to be a popular attraction for dads many of whom insist on going. The fair continues to attract an even larger number of our friends and neighbors from near and far.

An added sidebar attraction the last few years has been the small antique auto show next door in the Storer's front yard. Since the 1980s, the day has begun with the well-known 10K Hill & Dale race in which a couple of hundred male and female runners participate. The day's activities, displays, and events have continued to evolve over the years, and it's always a pleasant day looked forward to by all.

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (7/05)

The Matawan Journal of July 16, 1881 reported "a new station named Brielle has been opened on the Central Railroad below Manasquan". The station was located 6/10 mile south of the Manasquan station. Brielle station stop was the result of the efforts made by prominent New York and Jersey City businessmen who had newly formed the Brielle Land Association, They wished to provide train service for patrons of their new vacation development, which they had named ''Brielle". The New York & Long Branch Railroad, originally built by the Central Railroad of New Jersey, began operations in July 1875 opening an all rail route between Jersey City and Long Branch. The line was extended to Asbury Park at the end of August 1875, then to Sea Girt in the spring of 1876, to Point Pleasant in 1880 and to Bay Head by April 1882. The first station agent was Robert Hance. The June 23 1882 issue of The Seaside stated, "the grounds around the station were being ornamented with shrubbery, flowers and gravel walks. This station was located on the SE corner of Brielle Avenue and Fisk Avenue. (A small portion of curbing for the station drive is still visible on Brielle Avenue). Also in 1882, an agreement was reached with the Pennsylvania RR for joint use of the N.Y. & L.B. tracks. Train service directly to Manhattan from Brielle on the P.R.R. began in 1910 with the completion of the construction of a RR tunnel under the Hudson River and the building of Penn Station, New York. P.R.R. subsequently extended their tracks from Bay Head, which then became Bay Head Junction, down the coast, over to Toms River and on to Camden, where ferry service to Philadelphia was provided. Thus from Brielle station in the early part of the 20th century, residents and visitors enjoyed train service to New York and Philadelphia.

Additionally, boat-train service was available from Brielle to Atlantic Highlands where the Sandy Hook steamers transported passengers to and from Manhattan, The steamers used Pier 10 at the foot of Cedar Street, continuing on to Pier 81 at the foot of West 42nd Street. According to the CRR timetable in effect as of June 23, 1907, 12 daily boat trains to and from New York stopped in Brielle. This was in addition to the all-rail service where for example, as per the timetable in effect September 30, 1934, one could catch the ferry at the foot of Liberty Street in New York at 5:10 PM to connect with the train at Jersey City, and arrive in Brielle at 6:58. Alas, in December 1946 P.R.R. service south of Bay Head Junction ended. The boat trains made their last run on September 6, 1941. During World War II the P.R.R. ended service to Brielle and in January 1949, Jersey Central service ceased.

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (4/05)

A Look at a 1929 Letter from Mayor Powell March 11, 1929 Mr. Philip Shingler, Borough Clerk

Dear Sir:

I hereby Veto the resolution accepted at a meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Brielle held on Friday evening March 8th 1929 which authorized the purchase of a Chrysler Plymouth automobile for use of the Police Chief.

The reason is we can purchase a Ford Coach for $591.00 fully equipped including chains
and lettering, whereas the Chrysler Plymouth car would cost us $600.00 without extra
equipment.

It being necessary to spend additional $75.00 or $100.00 to equip and letter same. As we are obliged to keep within the sum of $600.00 the first car mentioned would answer the purpose.

I am opposed to the higher priced Chrysler Plymouth car.

I am yours very truly,
Allan L. Powell, Mayor

So, do you think the Mayor made a good decision 76 years ago? Adding $87 (average of $75-$100) to the cost of the Plymouth puts that car at $687 vs. $591 for the Ford. This difference of $96 seems rather insignificant today. Yet to put into perspective, multiply any figure of those days by 25 for comparable costs today. The $96 in 1929 translates to about $2400 today. But also bear in mind the less expensive Model A Ford while very reliable, had only four cylinders, not as speedy as the six-cylinder Plymouth. However the record tells us the Ford was purchased, and served as the police car through December 1933. The department had just one car in those days.

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (1/05) 

Check out the following. It 's an excerpt from the Borough Council Minutes of January 1, 1946. The author was Mayor Edward A. Carpenter.

RECOMMENDATION

To the Planning Commission:

For some years, I have felt the greatest need of our Borough, is a Community Center, to provide an adequate meeting place for all the Borough activities, social, religious, and fraternal. I strongly urge that your board suggest a site for such a building, giving thought to the future housing of all the Borough activities, together with ample parking spaces for any possible gathering which might use the facilities of the building. I further urge that when such a plan becomes an accomplished fact, that the center be dedicated as a war memorial to our boys and girls who served in the armed forces in the late war. You should develop an over all plan, which should contemplate the establishment of open areas as parks, play grounds, and future parking sites in congested areas.

Back in 1946, Borough Hall was located in cramped space on the second floor of the old firehouse. Today's Borough Hall was the local school in 1946. And, Mrs. Mary Strong had founded a library at her home on Longstreet Avenue and per-sonally administered it for 33 years until 1954. That was the extent of our public facilities. There was no place in Brielle to house religious activities. We were fortunate Mayor Carpenter articulated a vision and initiated leadership to establish those desirable public facilities that we now enjoy and take for granted. Good things do not just occur by themselves. The Mayor apparently had in mind just one center, but we ended with three plus a house of worship. First, in 1953, Borough Hall was established in much larger and indeed commodious
quarters in the school following the construction of a new larger school next door. Brielle School has been enlarged twice since then, the latest just three years ago. Secondly, as there was no place for religious gatherings Brielle, the Reformed Church of America did organize a congregation here in 1957. And while local government did not institute it, the identified need was met. Thirdly 1970, the "park" now known as Brielle Park was added including our community center known as the Curtis House. The park was obtained through help from the Green Acres Fund, of the State of New Jersey. Jersey. In 1973, the meeting room portion of the Curtis House was added. The park was officially dedicated In September 1975. See the plaque on the stone at the walkway entrance. The park was rededicated this past Brielle Day by Mayor Nicol.

Then in 1990 the Brielle Public Library acquired its own building, previously having been
located since 1954 in the basement of Borough Hall. The Mayor's 1946 facilities wish list has been realized and we enjoy an even deeper sense of community today in part due to his farsightedness. Yet, can you identify which portion of his Recommendation has never been enacted?

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (10/04)

Turn off the television, turn off the radio, turn off the cell phone, turn off the computer and set your mind back to the pace of life locally 117 years ago. Here's a neat article, a regular feature in those days, entitled "Crestdale" Scribblings from the September 23, 1887 issue of The Seaside, precursor of The Coast Star.

"The summer dwellers of the Hope Cottage left on Wednesday. The bathhouses of the shore cottages have all been brought in. Several horses in the neighborhood are ailing, Mr. Chas Osborn lost one. Mr. & Mrs. Jno. B. Cole and Mr. Wm. P Cole, of Brooklyn, spent several days at Crestdale*.

Nearly all the boats that but lately dotted the river with gay parties have been hauled into winter quarters. The Union** members of the Ocean Hill M.P. Church met with the Mite Society at Mr. Calvin Curtis's on Wednesday evening.

Green Peas are as sweet and tender as in early spring. Sweet potatoes are especially fine this season. Cantaloupes and grapes are plentiful and refreshing.

The air has been filled with the burning brick kilns in the vicinity till we have the Indian summer haze without its warmth and mildness.

Capt. Robert Brown took in the Philadelphia Centennial in all its glory, saw all the sights, heard all the sounds, and returned home a wiser and perhaps a happier man.

Mr. Loius Benson has charge of the plans for Mr. George Mohlman's new house on the river. It is to present ample porch room and will be built with an eye to summer comfort.

Miss Nellie Johnson, of Brooklyn, who has graced Crestdale* all summer with her beauty, winning manners and birdlike sounds, left on Wednesday for her home. It is needless to add 'we shall mourn her, we shall miss her'".

*There is a Brielle Historic Site sign marking the former location of the Cresdale House on Ashley Avenue. The seasonal hotel was originally constructed as a summer "cottage" for Captain Winant V. Pearce of Brooklyn. Correct spelling is Cresdale, the newspaper spelled it incorrectly.

**Union Landing vicinity was often referred to simply as The Union.

John Belding

Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (7/04) 

(There was quite a bit of excitement in town back in July 1941, just 63 years ago according to the ASBURY PARK EVENING NEWS).

''BRIELLE - A clattering of exploding bullets brought Granden Pearce, who lives opposite police headquarters, on the run to his front window at 12:55 am today. No, it wasn't an invasion - only the police station going up in flames. Mr. Pearce quickly got a fire alarm sounded. He knew that if he didn't act fast not only all of the borough's police equipment would be gone but all of the borough's fire equipment would be burned up, too. Firemen racing to the scene got their fire apparatus out of the first floor of the building and then turned their attention to fighting the fire in police headquarters on the second floor.

Before the flames were extinguished damage of $4,000 had been caused, records were lost, police equipment was wrecked. The cause of the fire was either defective wiring or a short circuit in the police radio receiver, Police Chief George Legg said.

According to Howard M. Folk, president of the fire company, flames ate thru the metal
of headquarters but only scorched roof beams in the attic overhead. A metal ceiling
over the fire engine garage withstood the flames and when firemen arrived the entire
building was filled with smoke and one of the borough fire engines had to be pushed from
the garage when it failed to start.

The Chief reported that Patrolman John Rogers had come on at midnight to relieve
Officer Shern Pearce who had been on duty since 4 o'clock. Rogers was taking Pearce
home when he heard a series of explosions, which they thought 'was some wise guy shooting fire crackers'.

At the same time the borough fire whistle sounded and the officers rushed to the fire-
house to find the police station ablaze. The exploding ammunition was credited by the Chief with preventing the complete destruction of the building. The Chief said that there were over 100 rounds of .38 caliber loads on the desks in headquarters.

The ammunition had been given to the Chief several days ago by Officer Rogers when he found it would not work in his weapon. The Chief said he had forgotten to take the bullets home.

The Chief said this morning that the department will be without a headquarters for several days and any emergency police calls will have to be made to WX3360* and
then relayed ,over the county radio to the patrol car. The damage was chiefly by
smoke and water. The loss is covered by insurance.''

*A WX call was the precursor of 800 numbers.

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (10/03)

THE BEGINNING OF THE MANASQUAN RIVER GOLF CLUB

On September 8th, 1922, an organization then bearing the name "Mansquan River Golf & Country Club" filed it's first corporate certificate at the Monmouth County Clerk's Office in Freehold. The club was founded through the efforts of its charter members, Howard Folk, Edwin Isham, Tosso Fisher, Peter Bochus, George Duvoll, Bancroft Gheradi, E.F. Emerick, Matthew Marcellus and William VonPlanck.

The Corporation acquired the "Old Charles Osborn Farm", an area of about 145 acres of wooded rolling hills and fertile pastures that sloped to some 1800 feet of waterfront on the Manasquan River. The purchase price was $60,000 and 200 shares were reported to have been subscribed to at $500 each. Edwin Isham donated an additional 6 acres, located near today's first green and second fairway. A creek and a series of small ponds border the area.

A ridge, crossing from the present third tee through the 11th fairway, is reported to be the highest point on the eastern coastline between Atlantic Highlands and the ocean dunes in North Carolina.

The attractive two-story brick farmhouse, built in 1822 by Lt. Abraham Osborn, became the first clubhouse. Today it is that portion of the clubhouse on the left when viewed from the road.

The first nine holes were fashioned from swampy lowlands along the river and opened for play on July 22, 1924. Robert White, well-known architect and professional golfer, constructed them at a cost of $26,000. A native of St. Andrews, Mr. White designed or remodeled many courses in the eastern United States. In 1926, the second nine, carved from the Scotch heather and laurel-laden ravines and elevated forests overlooking the river, opened for play. The original plans called for tennis courts and a large marine complex on the river. The marina was never constructed and the tennis courts, while built, were only temporarily maintained and later became the practice range.

The young club filed for bankruptcy during the Depression but was rescued through the generosity of Lee Bristol, of Bristol Myers. He agreed to underwrite all debts, without interest, until the club reorganization in 1935 as the Manasquan River Golf Club.

The first of many changes and improvements was the construction of a large multi-purpose room with a cathedral ceiling, massive hand-hewn beams and a huge fireplace. The room was modeled after the American Room in the Museum of Natural History, New York.

In 1941, the annual dues were $50, which included full privileges of the club and course for one child less than 21 years of age.

John Belding
Borough Historian

 It Was Only Yesterday (1/03) 

Here is an item from the Asbury Park Press on February 16, 1914. Recall the Union House was mentioned in the last Brielle Bulletin.

"HISTORICAL HOTEL AT BRIELLE DESTROYED"

Union House, once home of Robert Louis Stevenson, burns with loss of $100,000.

OCCUPANTS FLEE IN NIGHT CLOTHES

BRIELLE, Feb 16: Fire early yesterday destroyed the Union House, a historic hostelry on the shore of the Manasquan River, entailing a loss of $100,000. The hotel was the home of Robert Louis Stevenson, (month of May, 1883), while he wrote the greater part of "The Master of Ballantrea".

Awakened by the crisis of their infant son, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley V. Wainwright were startled at seeing the room lighted by darts of flame coming through walls and floor. After helping his wife and children to safety, Mr. Wainwright ran back and upstairs where his mother lay asleep in a rear bedroom. He carried her out also, next arousing Amanda Anderson, a servant who slept in an adjoining room. The girl, by stopping to gather her clothing, was nearly cut off from escape.

Mrs. Wainwright ran with her child through the cold over ice and frozen roads to the home of Mr. and Mrs. John B. Folk, who gave them shelter. Clad only in his night clothes, Mr. Wainwright ran half a mile to the firehouse and sounded an alarm. It was soon seen that the local department could not cope with the fire, so a call was sent to Manasquan.

Chief William H. Ruf of the Manasquan department responded with members of the Manasquan Fire Company, but refused to permit any apparatus to be taken to Brielle. He was hooted and jeered on his return, after the destruction of the hotel.

So intense was the cold, that at one time the Brielle Fire Engine froze, with the result that it had to be hauled closer to the burning structure to get it in working order again. By hard the firemen managed to save the store and post office building only a few steps away.

Priceless autographs, which hung on the walls of the Union House, were destroyed. The room in which Stevenson wrote the closing chapters of "the Master of Ballantrea" was always kept as a literary shrine.

Before bridges were built across the Manasquan River at this place, the Union House was the connecting point for stage lines from the north and west, passengers being ferried across the stream.

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (7/02) 

On the river at the foot of Union Lane, at Union Landing, a resort hotel had been erected sometime after 1850 by Captain John M. Brown and called the Union House. *Over the years, this inn became a favorite vacation spot for many, including well known artist and authors. In April 1888, Captain Brown's daughter, Adelaide Wainwright, then managing the hotel with her husband Henry, received a letter from Mr. Will H. Low, artist. He requested that the inn might accommodate a friend of his, Robert Lewis Stevenson, along with some Stevenson family members for the month of May, notwithstanding the hotel would not as yet be open for the season.

In an interview years later, Mrs. Wainwright stated, "they were always glad to comply with Mr. Low's requests. Artists and authors were not uncommon visitors in the old home whose roof had sheltered such". The proposed guest was just becoming well known. She went on to reminisce: "At the time he was with us, his wife was in San Francisco arranging for a trip o the Pacific. The family coming to the inn consisted of Stevenson, his stepson Lloyd Osborne and (the family's French maid), Valentine (Roch). The month of May in that year was particularly one of fogs and damp weather, but there were many bright days, and on such, Stevenson, wrapped in his long dark cloak would take lengthy walks, usually beside the river or across the bridge to Point Pleasant, sometimes with Osborne sailing in his hired boat. On damp days he would remain in the house - more often in his room - doing much of his writing in bed; at such times he would have around him a Mexican blanket having a hole cut in the center to slip over his head, thus protecting from any drafts which might otherwise be felt. A little grate fire in the corner of the room gave added cheer. While here, he was writing "The Master of Ballantrae".

I recall the bright Sunday when Saint Gaudens, the sculptor, came down from New York to model the hands of Stevenson for his medallion. The little son of Saint Gaudens came with his father and Mr. Stevenson was delighted with him. Charles Scribner, at that time his New York publisher, also visited him, and spent at least one night with him. Numerous telegrams passed between Mr. and Mrs. Stevenson relative to the plans for their anticipated trip. I recall one sent to Mrs. Stevenson, because it cost eight dollars.

On the morning he left for San Fancisco, via New York, he wrote the following lines in my little daughter's album:

'Little girls should take and tackle their pianos Early in the morning as I like to hear you do, Stick to early rising, and the various other virtues, Looking out for early folks will come and stick to you'.

He left our home on May 28, 1888."

*(The Borough Historian has the full interview in his files. The location of the Union House, which burned down in 1914, was about where the Sand Bar Restaurant is today.)

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (4/02)

It is apparent that wars, rumors of wars and depredation have not been unknown to residents of our area in years past. You may recall that there was once a large salt works located in the vicinity of the Union Landing (foot of Union Lane where there is today a sign marking this historical spot).

Here is what happened there on April 7th, 1778 as reported by the New York Gazette & Weekly Mercury. As you review this article bear in mind how important salt was for the preservation of food in those days. In addition, we had believed over the years that the raiders burned all the houses in our area (with a single exception). From the tenor of this article it would appear that the word "houses" might actually refer to salt boiling sheds and not residential homes.

"New York, April 13. Last Tuesday arrived Captain Robertson, of the 35th Regiment, from an Excursion on the Monmouth Coast, with the pleasing account as follows. That on the 4th Instant, Capt. Potterfield of the 71st Regiment with a Detachment of 150 men, sailed from New York in three small Vessels, under the Convoy of the armed Sloop George and proceeded to Sandy Hook, where they were joined by 40 Marines and Provincials. On the 5th in the Morning they sailed from the hook, under the command of Capt. Collins of the Fowey; at eight o'Clock of the same morning arrived off Squam, where the troops landed and marched up to some very considerable Salt Works, erected there by the rebels, which they entirely demolished. There could not be less than One Hundred different houses, in each of which were from six to ten coppers and kettles, for the purpose of boiling salt; one of the houses (which belonged to congress), cost 6000 1. Besides demolishing the above Works, they destroyed immense Quantities of Salt, Beef, salted and dried Hams, sides of bacon, flour, corn and hay. They brought off a sloop belonging to Boston, partly loaded with flour, and at three O'Clock in the afternoon re-embarked without opposition"

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (1/02) 

The Borough Historian, admitting that we indeed live in perilous time, calls your attention to the fact that that this was also true fifty years ago. While circumstances differed, keep in mind in those days we were engaged in the Korean War, the Chinese army was about to sweep in and engulf our troops there, the Soviet Union had obtained the atom bomb, the Cold War was in full swing, nuclear holocaust was feared, fallout shelter were much in the news, air raid sirens sounded every Monday afternoon and children had to practice "duck and cover" drills in school.

Take a look at some news items copied from the front page of the Friday, January 5, 1951 edition of THE BRIELLE TIMES, a newspaper published here for a few years after World War II.

*WHEREAS, Executive order has established a New Jersey Civil Defense Plan, and

WHEREAS, Each citizen of this Community has a responsibility to aid in National Security, and

WHEREAS, Many volunteers are needed for the various services requisite to Civil Defense

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Reginald N. Pearce, mayor of the Borough of Brielle, do hereby proclaim the week of January 7 thru 13, 1951, as CIVIL DEFENSE WEEK and urge all residents to volunteer their services in any of the local organizations of the Defense Plan, namely auxiliary firemen, wardens, rescue, road clearance, and Red Cross groups.

Given under my hand and Seal of the Borough of Brielle this 27th day of December 1950.

Reginald N. Pearce

Mayor

**********************

SAUER REJOINS SHIP AT NORFOLK

Robert W. Sauer, F.A.U.S.N. who recently graduated from the United States Navy Training Base at Great Lakes, Ill, has returned to Norfolk, Va. where he is stationed aboard the U.S.S. Seneca. He was home on a New Years leave, which was spent with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry C. Sauer, Manasquan Avenue, Brielle.

**********************

BRIELLE BREEZES

Warren Pearce started this morning for Lincoln Memorial College in Tennessee, taking three other boys. Ted Burlew, Jr. helped out with his car, sharing with the boys and baggage. Robert Sanders, a grandson of Mr. and Mrs. George Sanders, who attends the University of Virginia, came north with his wife to spend Christmas with the Sanders on Cherokee Lane.

**********************

EUROPEAN DEFENSE IS SLOW MOVING

(Story followed)

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (10/01) 

The Borough Historian does not feel that 1959 was that long ago, although others may disagree. Anyhow, here's what was happening around our town according to the October 1, 1959 edition of The Leader of Point Pleasant, under the heading of "Brielle Doings". Recognize any of these names from "yesterday"?

Brielle Little Theater Group is busy rehearsing three nights a week for the musical comedy "Roberta" which will be produced November 20 and 21 at Brielle School for the Brielle scholarship fund. Mrs. Gloria Sacco Morro will play the lead.

Mrs. Leona Hurt of Woodland Avenue was guest of honor at a surprise birthday party September 20 arranged by her son Clifton and Mr. and Mrs. Booker Kenney. Special surprise was the arrival of her cousin Mrs. Ardena Fice of Chicago and Mrs. Ella Eve of Atlantic City........and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Jones of Brielle.

G. Gerard Barnett 3rd, son of G.G. Barnett of Sycamore Lane, spent his 19th birthday on Sunday at Duke University where he is a freshman.

Mrs. Michael Tornillo of Leslie Avenue was feted at a family dinner on Saturday at the home of her parents Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Cortese of Lake Avenue. Also present were Mr. Tornillo and Mark and Tom, and Mrs. Tornillo's aunt Miss Kay Lennon of East Orange.

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Patterson of Locust Lane celebrated their anniversary on Monday at Buck Hills Falls Inn.

There were birthday greetings in the freshman class on Tuesday for the 14th birthday of Barbara Williams, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Williams of Cedar Crest drive. Patsy Meyers was dinner guest to mark the occasion.

Mr. and Mrs. Milton O. Hull and their daughter Mrs. Franklin C. Hill of Riverview Drive returned this week from a trip to Bermuda.

Weekending with Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Stires of Cardeza Avenue were Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lannon and daughter Helen of Yonkers and Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Baltz of Thousand Islands, NY.

Philip Voorhees, son of radio announcer William Voorhees and Mrs. Voorhees of Fisk Avenue, shared his one-candle cake with brothers Peter and Paul on Monday.

The Old Cedar Inn, Toms River, was celebratory spot for Mr. and Mrs. Harry Speicher of Leslie Avenue for Mr. Speicher's birthday on Sunday. Speicher is owner of Hollyberry Gift Shop in the old Brielle Post Office, Green Avenue.

John Belding
Borough Historian

It Was Only Yesterday (7/01)

There are those who contend the "good old days" were "better", especially for children. (Although we might refute that from a medical point of view). But all things considered, and not to put too fine a point to it, what's your opinion? Travel back a bit in time via the following newspaper stories from THE SEA SIDE, precursor of THE COAST STAR.

THE SEA SIDE, Friday, July 28, 1882. "The Manasquan River at this season of the year presents a really charming appearance. Its smooth waters flecked with the white snails of numerous boats, the happy and pleasure-seeking fishing parties dotted here and there, the beautiful and picturesque scenery along the banks, and with the joyful sound of music and the ringing laugh of happy children coming from the hotels and cottages along shore tends to make it one of the most delightful places for a days enjoyment.

THE SEA SIDE, Friday, July 9, 1886. "A small and select company of young people in town accepted the kind invitation of Capt. T.S.P. Brown and indulged in a quiet sail on the Manasquan on Monday evening last. After several hours of enjoyment on the water the company visited the pleasantly situated residence of capt. Brown, where ice cream and other refreshments were served in abundance. The Capt. is full of such tricks.

THE SEA SIDE, Friday, June 24, 1887. The children who labored so patiently to make the recent fan Drill a success, were treated to a picnic at Crestdale* on Tuesday. As they skimmed along the river in the gay boats, passengers at the windows at the train that dashed across the bridge were greeted with a vision of rare innocence and beauty. With their hostess among them, a child herself for the time being, they played upon the lawn, chased each other along the galleries, and limbed to the tower whence stretches a lovely view of land and sea. Then a feast in the summer-house and a drive back home in the farm wagon with flags waving and fresh young voices stirring the echoes in song. Happy Little Ones! What future is written for them on the scroll of time?