Since its founding in 1969, the Historical Society of Ocean Grove has pledged to preserve, document, and encourage community interest in Ocean Grove.
Ocean Grove
In the summer of 1869, ten families gathered for rest and religious fellowship on land that is now known as Founders Park. After Dr. William B. Osborn has examined the New Jersey coast from Sandy Hook to Cape May, he chose this square mile because it was covered in trees and free from mosquitos. He named it Ocean Grove. In December 1869 an organization consisting of 13 ministers and 13 laymen formed “The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association”. The following year, s charter was obtained from the New Jersey Legislature and life has flourished ever since. Today, Ocean Grove is known for it’s calm and beautiful beaches, boardwalk, and vibrant community life. The town boasts a quaint main street with family-owned shops, as well as Victorian architecture and gardens around every corner.
Current Project
Donate to the Historic Urn Restoration Project
We are reaching out to the communities of Ocean Grove & History lovers everywhere to appeal for your support in the restoration of our historic urns. These iconic pieces were brought to Ocean Grove in the town's earliest years and have stood as an enduring symbol of our heritage. Crafted by renowned artisans, the urns have graced our town with their timeless beauty.
Unfortunately, the passage of time and the elements have taken their toll on these treasures. In order to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the splendor of these urns, we are launching the Urn Restoration Project.
Your generous donation will contribute to the meticulous restoration of these irreplaceable artifacts, preserving an integral part of Ocean Grove's history for years to come. No contribution is too small, and every donation brings us closer to our goal.
Join us in safeguarding our town's rich cultural legacy. Your support will not only honor our past but also enrich the experience of all who visit and inhabit Ocean Grove.
The Historical Society
The purpose of this nonprofit Society is to sustain the heritage and honor of being designated a State and National Historic District.
The Historical Society aims to:
Advocate for the protection of Ocean Grove’s historic structures, material culture, and built environment.
Maintain Ocean Grove as the largest assemblage of authentic Victorian architecture in the nation, and its establishment as a 19th century planned resort community.
Enrich the Camp Meeting heritage of Ocean Grove and the town’s unique heritage.
For more about the History of the Historical Society, please follow the link .
Get to know the HSOG
Founding and Incorporation
Welcome to the Historical Society of Ocean Grove! The HSOG was founded in 1969 by Edith Aschenbach, Wayne T. (Ted) Bell, and others when Robert and Mary Skold, donated Centennial Cottage[Link to Centennial Cottage] to the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association to honor the 100th anniversary of the founding of Ocean Grove. The HSOG was given responsibility to host and maintain the Cottage.
Volunteer-Run Nonprofit.
In 1970, the HSOG applied to be an official charitable organization and the IRS granted it tax exempt status (aka Ruling Year) in 1971. The organization is almost completely volunteer-run, and has been since its founding over 50 years ago. It is only through the tireless dedication, enthusiasm, and passion of generations of volunteers, supporters, and friends that the organization has been able to grow and thrive through today.
Moving Toward a Permanent Home.
The HSOG’s first Museum was in one room of Centennial Cottage, which the organization quickly outgrew. It then moved to the third floor of the former OGCMA headquarters building near the current Post Office on Main Avenue. The HSOG had to put its collection into storage when the OGCMA later sold that building. In 1986, the HSOG reopened at 53 Central Avenue and outgrew that space as well. In 1994, the OGCMA invited the HSOG to display some of its artifacts in the foyer of its new building at 54 Pitman Avenue. Ultimately, in 1997 the HSOG purchased the front first floor and basement of 50 Pitman Avenue across the street from Auditorium Park and the Great Auditorium.