The 4 Oct 1935 edition of The Matawan Journal (pg 7 col 4) reported on the establishment of the first birth control clinic in Monmouth County in Asbury Park.
BIRTH CONTROL CLINIC OPENS
A birth control clinic for Monmouth County opened at 913 Sewall Avenue, Asbury Park, Wednesday, according to Mrs. Robert G Haley, Rumson, and will be known as the Monmouth County Maternal Health Center.
The clinic, the first of its kind in the county, each Wednesday will give contraceptive advice to overburdened mothers and those in poor health. A small sum will be charged those capable of paying, but poor mothers will be given advice free of charge.
A blog about living in Aberdeen, New Jersey.
Showing posts with label Asbury Park. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Asbury Park. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
History: Matawan Presbyterian Choir, Matawan (1929)
Below is an update on the music program at the First Presbyterian Church of Matawan, as reported in the 4 Oct 1929 edition of The Matawan Journal (pg 5 col 3).
PRESBYTERIAN CHOIR BEGINS SEASON'S ACTIVITIES
Past Year's Work Has Been Especially Successful.
The Presbyterian choir began its fall and winter activities this month under the continued leadership of Mrs. Wilson W. Hobrough. The year's work just closed has been especially successful.
An anthem was provided for each Sunday morning service and two anthems for the evening service throughout the year, with the exception of August when special solos were rendered by vocalists who were not in the regular church choir. On one Sunday evening of each the winter months, the service was made up almost entirely of music. At Easter a cantata was given by an augmented choir of twenty voices, with instrumental accompaniment of organ, piano, flute and violin.
A feature of the choir work has been the fostering of the social life of the organization. Socials have been held in the lecture room of the church, and in the homes of the members. An out-of-doors picnic was held at Matthews' Log Cabin * and a shore dinner enjoyed at Asbury Park.
Emerson J. Lisk is president of the choir, Miss G. M. Farry, vice president; W. Oliver Diggin, secretary and treasurer; Mrs. Wilson W. Hobrough, director, and Mrs. George Davison, organist. Gustav Vockler, flutist; Miss Edith Davison, pianist, and Mrs William Pengel, violinist assisted on special occasions. Assisting soloists were Mrs. Conover Burlew, soprano; Harry Bolte, Jr. of Keyport, and Dr. William Pengel, baritone. Out-of-town soloists were Miss Mildred Morrison, of Dayton, O., and Miss Marie Ruesch, of Fair Haven.
* The 23 Jul 1930 edition of The Red Bank Register has a reference to Matthew's Log Cabin as a picnic grounds in Colts Neck.
PRESBYTERIAN CHOIR BEGINS SEASON'S ACTIVITIES
Past Year's Work Has Been Especially Successful.
The Presbyterian choir began its fall and winter activities this month under the continued leadership of Mrs. Wilson W. Hobrough. The year's work just closed has been especially successful.
An anthem was provided for each Sunday morning service and two anthems for the evening service throughout the year, with the exception of August when special solos were rendered by vocalists who were not in the regular church choir. On one Sunday evening of each the winter months, the service was made up almost entirely of music. At Easter a cantata was given by an augmented choir of twenty voices, with instrumental accompaniment of organ, piano, flute and violin.
A feature of the choir work has been the fostering of the social life of the organization. Socials have been held in the lecture room of the church, and in the homes of the members. An out-of-doors picnic was held at Matthews' Log Cabin * and a shore dinner enjoyed at Asbury Park.
Emerson J. Lisk is president of the choir, Miss G. M. Farry, vice president; W. Oliver Diggin, secretary and treasurer; Mrs. Wilson W. Hobrough, director, and Mrs. George Davison, organist. Gustav Vockler, flutist; Miss Edith Davison, pianist, and Mrs William Pengel, violinist assisted on special occasions. Assisting soloists were Mrs. Conover Burlew, soprano; Harry Bolte, Jr. of Keyport, and Dr. William Pengel, baritone. Out-of-town soloists were Miss Mildred Morrison, of Dayton, O., and Miss Marie Ruesch, of Fair Haven.
* The 23 Jul 1930 edition of The Red Bank Register has a reference to Matthew's Log Cabin as a picnic grounds in Colts Neck.
Labels:
Asbury Park,
history,
Matawan,
music,
Presbyterians
Sunday, December 16, 2012
History: Charles Appleby, Real Estate Tycoon, Dead at 89 (1913)
When the New York real estate magnate Charles Appleby died in New York City at 89, a brief obituary appeared on the last page of the 18 Dec 1913 edition of The Matawan Journal (pg 8, col 5). A Middletown, NJ native, Appleby maintained his New Jersey residency until he died.
Appleby was of local interest because his nephew, T Frank Appleby, was an Old Bridge native who had recently served as Mayor of Asbury Park. (A photo of his real estate agency in Asbury Park appears at Monmouth Plus.) He would later represent New Jersey's 3rd Congressional District (1921-23), lose the next election, then win his seat back in the 1924 election, but die before taking office. His son, Stewart H Appleby, would take his place in office (1925-27). The 3rd Congressional District would be Matawan's local district until 1993, the seat most recently held by James Howard (1965-88), and Frank Pallone (1988-93).
Appleby had an amazing sense for real estate. His holdings included exclusive properties along the edge of Central Park and on Riverside Drive. Appleby purchased farmland in Glen Cove, Long IslandNew York in the 1870's, according to Glen Cove Heritage. Just before he died, Appleby solidified his massive holdings on West 57th Street, according to the 7 Oct 1913 edition of The New York Times. At the end, he left a $50 million estate to his two sons, according to Dynastic America and Those Who Own It, by Henry H Klein, pg 37.
Appleby was of local interest because his nephew, T Frank Appleby, was an Old Bridge native who had recently served as Mayor of Asbury Park. (A photo of his real estate agency in Asbury Park appears at Monmouth Plus.) He would later represent New Jersey's 3rd Congressional District (1921-23), lose the next election, then win his seat back in the 1924 election, but die before taking office. His son, Stewart H Appleby, would take his place in office (1925-27). The 3rd Congressional District would be Matawan's local district until 1993, the seat most recently held by James Howard (1965-88), and Frank Pallone (1988-93).
Appleby had an amazing sense for real estate. His holdings included exclusive properties along the edge of Central Park and on Riverside Drive. Appleby purchased farmland in Glen Cove, Long IslandNew York in the 1870's, according to Glen Cove Heritage. Just before he died, Appleby solidified his massive holdings on West 57th Street, according to the 7 Oct 1913 edition of The New York Times. At the end, he left a $50 million estate to his two sons, according to Dynastic America and Those Who Own It, by Henry H Klein, pg 37.
Labels:
Asbury Park,
Election,
local families,
nj,
Old Bridge
Thursday, March 29, 2012
History: Easter Fashion, Steinbach Co, Asbury Park (1926)
Below is a sampling of a full page ad from page 2 of the 26 March 1926 edition of The Matawan Journal, which urged the stylish Christian woman of the Roaring Twenties to buy her Easter clothing and accessories at Steinbach's of Asbury Park. The ad certainly testifies to the utter gravity of fashion long faced by the average woman attending worship on high holy days.
— that great anticipated day when every whisper of Spring brings to every fashion-loving woman an impulse to match the freshness of the season with new togs and to sally forth — for this occasion and the gay days to follow, we've been preparing. With hurried trips to the fashion centers of Europe; with numerous, nimble little fingers skillfully active in our own workrooms; with interesting, new assortments — the Steinbach Shops are gloriously ready for Easter!
Frocks Gay as Spring's Own Days
And its by their simplicity of line — with of course an occasional flare or pleat here and there; by their fascinating new mezzo colors and lastly by their flattering new materials that you'll recognize the smartest new models one would choose for the Easter wardrobe. All frocks of infinite distinction — fashioned of georgettes, silk crepes and many times of lace. And priced $16.50 to $59.50.
Simplicity Marks the Smartest Coats
Debonair and slender — debonair and flaring are the ways of the new coats for Easter. But the secret of their smartness of discovered in their simplicity of styling. Many flaunt graceful capes, many are trimly appliqued with taffeta but nearly all are collared with soft, flattering furs. Strictly mannish models disclose vivid linings and facings and achieve their trig with ingenious tailoring. $24.50 to $79.50.
The Small Hat Tops the Easter Mode
The woman who would top her Easter costume smartly chooses her chapeau with the same care grandmother did her spring bonnet — and that was an occasion indeed! With the same indicism too perhaps when so many intriguing models are showing in the Steinbach Millinery Salon. Charming hats from famous Parisian ateliers and cleverest impore copies are here — the small hat with draped crown, berets, chic close fitting models and simply tailored hats. $8.50 to $50.00.
— that great anticipated day when every whisper of Spring brings to every fashion-loving woman an impulse to match the freshness of the season with new togs and to sally forth — for this occasion and the gay days to follow, we've been preparing. With hurried trips to the fashion centers of Europe; with numerous, nimble little fingers skillfully active in our own workrooms; with interesting, new assortments — the Steinbach Shops are gloriously ready for Easter!
Frocks Gay as Spring's Own Days
And its by their simplicity of line — with of course an occasional flare or pleat here and there; by their fascinating new mezzo colors and lastly by their flattering new materials that you'll recognize the smartest new models one would choose for the Easter wardrobe. All frocks of infinite distinction — fashioned of georgettes, silk crepes and many times of lace. And priced $16.50 to $59.50.
Simplicity Marks the Smartest Coats
Debonair and slender — debonair and flaring are the ways of the new coats for Easter. But the secret of their smartness of discovered in their simplicity of styling. Many flaunt graceful capes, many are trimly appliqued with taffeta but nearly all are collared with soft, flattering furs. Strictly mannish models disclose vivid linings and facings and achieve their trig with ingenious tailoring. $24.50 to $79.50.
The Small Hat Tops the Easter Mode
The woman who would top her Easter costume smartly chooses her chapeau with the same care grandmother did her spring bonnet — and that was an occasion indeed! With the same indicism too perhaps when so many intriguing models are showing in the Steinbach Millinery Salon. Charming hats from famous Parisian ateliers and cleverest impore copies are here — the small hat with draped crown, berets, chic close fitting models and simply tailored hats. $8.50 to $50.00.
Labels:
Asbury Park,
churches,
commentary,
companies,
history
Saturday, September 17, 2011
History: 19th-20th Century Electrification In The Matawan Journal
Here's a bit of the history of the introduction of electricity in our area and around the world, as reported in The Matawan Journal:
The 4 Sep 1886 edition says that ships with running lights were now able to pass through the Suez Canal in 16 hours instead of 48 because the passage could include the night time hours. (page 3)
The 8 Oct 1887 edition says that Red Bank may soon have streets and stores lit with electricity. Asbury Park's electric street railway cars were operational and running well. (page 3)
The 23 Jul 1892 edition includes an article called Electricity for Matawan. The Journal's editor had become acquainted with the use of electricity in Pennsylvania to run trains more efficiently than by locomotive, plus the same dynamos were being used effectively to provide lighting. The newspaper suggested a discussion of the potentials locally. "We see no reason why Matawan, Freneau and Keyport should not be united by an electric road, as well as enjoy the benefits of a complete system of electric lighting."
The 14 Apr 1898 edition contains a public notice of a county ordinance allowing the Monmouth Traction Company to construct and operate an electric train system in Freehold (town and township), Marlboro (township), and Matawan (borough and township). Section 5 of the ordinance requires the use of electricity as the sole motive power for the propulsion of the trains. This section also provides for the proper construction of utility poles and indicates that a map exists showing the exact spots for each pole.
The 12 Oct 1899 edition has a front page article boasting the first operation of street lights on Main Street in Matawan on 10 Oct 1899. The arc lights were brilliant, greatly outshining the kerosene lamps still in place nearby, but the lights were spaced inefficiently because some owners objected to their placement in front of their properties. The newspaper urged a resolution so the lights could be placed properly and avoid additional installation costs to move some poles later.
The 19 Sep 1901 edition indicated that Matawan Borough was paying a bill of $184.75 to the Electric Light Company. The borough was also entertaining a telephone francise for the Inter-State Telephone Company.
The 1 Sep 1910 edition and 8 Apr 1915 edition have the above advertisement by Alexander H Sands and Son, Electrical Contractors, encouraging the public to install electricity at home. Light your home by Electricity, the safest illuminant known. The most approved and up-to-date appliances used in all our work. Iron, Wash and Cook by Electricity. Burglar Alarms, Annunciators, Bell, Electrical Fixtures Installed and Repaired. Orders received at J A Lewis' Stationery Store in Matawan, NJ. The company's office and shop was located at 93 Main Street, Keyport.
The 23 Mar 1916 edition says the Atlantic Coast Electric Light Company was invoking another change downward in electric lighting and power rates in the Long Branch area to coincide with its offer to install wiring and fixtures in homes and offices at wholesale prices. The company's clear intent, The Journal commented, is "to place electricity both for household and commercial purposes within easy reach of all."
The 2 May 1918 edition offers a cleaning remedy for gas lamp-stained ceilings in a piece titled "Remove Smoke Stains." The suggestion will be beneficial to housewives who have not the convenience of electricity or the modern gas fixtures. Frequently the ceiling above an old-fashioned gas jet becomes discolored from smoke and heat. The discoloration may be removed if a layer of starch and water is applied with a piece of flannel. After the mixture has dried it should be brushed slightly with a brush. No stain or mark will remain.
The 4 Sep 1886 edition says that ships with running lights were now able to pass through the Suez Canal in 16 hours instead of 48 because the passage could include the night time hours. (page 3)
The 8 Oct 1887 edition says that Red Bank may soon have streets and stores lit with electricity. Asbury Park's electric street railway cars were operational and running well. (page 3)
The 23 Jul 1892 edition includes an article called Electricity for Matawan. The Journal's editor had become acquainted with the use of electricity in Pennsylvania to run trains more efficiently than by locomotive, plus the same dynamos were being used effectively to provide lighting. The newspaper suggested a discussion of the potentials locally. "We see no reason why Matawan, Freneau and Keyport should not be united by an electric road, as well as enjoy the benefits of a complete system of electric lighting."
The 14 Apr 1898 edition contains a public notice of a county ordinance allowing the Monmouth Traction Company to construct and operate an electric train system in Freehold (town and township), Marlboro (township), and Matawan (borough and township). Section 5 of the ordinance requires the use of electricity as the sole motive power for the propulsion of the trains. This section also provides for the proper construction of utility poles and indicates that a map exists showing the exact spots for each pole.
The 12 Oct 1899 edition has a front page article boasting the first operation of street lights on Main Street in Matawan on 10 Oct 1899. The arc lights were brilliant, greatly outshining the kerosene lamps still in place nearby, but the lights were spaced inefficiently because some owners objected to their placement in front of their properties. The newspaper urged a resolution so the lights could be placed properly and avoid additional installation costs to move some poles later.
The 19 Sep 1901 edition indicated that Matawan Borough was paying a bill of $184.75 to the Electric Light Company. The borough was also entertaining a telephone francise for the Inter-State Telephone Company.
The 1 Sep 1910 edition and 8 Apr 1915 edition have the above advertisement by Alexander H Sands and Son, Electrical Contractors, encouraging the public to install electricity at home. Light your home by Electricity, the safest illuminant known. The most approved and up-to-date appliances used in all our work. Iron, Wash and Cook by Electricity. Burglar Alarms, Annunciators, Bell, Electrical Fixtures Installed and Repaired. Orders received at J A Lewis' Stationery Store in Matawan, NJ. The company's office and shop was located at 93 Main Street, Keyport.
The 23 Mar 1916 edition says the Atlantic Coast Electric Light Company was invoking another change downward in electric lighting and power rates in the Long Branch area to coincide with its offer to install wiring and fixtures in homes and offices at wholesale prices. The company's clear intent, The Journal commented, is "to place electricity both for household and commercial purposes within easy reach of all."
The 2 May 1918 edition offers a cleaning remedy for gas lamp-stained ceilings in a piece titled "Remove Smoke Stains." The suggestion will be beneficial to housewives who have not the convenience of electricity or the modern gas fixtures. Frequently the ceiling above an old-fashioned gas jet becomes discolored from smoke and heat. The discoloration may be removed if a layer of starch and water is applied with a piece of flannel. After the mixture has dried it should be brushed slightly with a brush. No stain or mark will remain.
Labels:
Asbury Park,
companies,
history,
Matawan,
Red Bank
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Shorelink Shuttle
If you like visiting the beach at Belmar on a hot summer day but can't stand the traffic you face getting there and back, consider taking the train. Ah, but what are you supposed to do once you get to the station? How do you get to the beach?
Well, Belmar and neighboring towns have an inexpensive ($1 per ride) shuttle bus service that connects visitors to the beach and train stations and points (restaurants, shopping, etc) in between. From now until 30 September, the shuttle will run Thursdays 9 am to 6 pm and Fridays through Sundays 9 am to 9 pm. The shuttle serves North Jersey Coast Line railroad stations at Asbury Park, Bradley Beach and Belmar. The shuttle also serves Ocean Grove.
The Shorelink Shuttle is a joint project of the Federal Government, Monmouth County, and the municipalities it serves. The Feds are picking up 75% of the cost. Check out the story at APP.
Well, Belmar and neighboring towns have an inexpensive ($1 per ride) shuttle bus service that connects visitors to the beach and train stations and points (restaurants, shopping, etc) in between. From now until 30 September, the shuttle will run Thursdays 9 am to 6 pm and Fridays through Sundays 9 am to 9 pm. The shuttle serves North Jersey Coast Line railroad stations at Asbury Park, Bradley Beach and Belmar. The shuttle also serves Ocean Grove.
The Shorelink Shuttle is a joint project of the Federal Government, Monmouth County, and the municipalities it serves. The Feds are picking up 75% of the cost. Check out the story at APP.
Wild Kingdom in Monmouth County
It's been Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom in Monmouth County the past few days. A baboon has been roaming Freehold and Millstone, an apparent escapee from Six Flags Great Adventure, and humpback whales were seen breaching just offshore at Asbury Park, lured into the shallows by the abundance of bunker (menhaden). Check out pictures and a video of the baboon and a picture of the whales at APP
Labels:
Asbury Park,
environment,
Freehold,
Monmouth County
Thursday, March 17, 2011
9th Annual Garden State Film Festival
Labels:
arts,
Asbury Park,
festivals,
film,
nj
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Beannacht to Play at Espresso Joe's in Keyport
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| Beannacht at JAMA on Saturday night. (Photo: Steve Stanger) |
Labels:
arts,
Asbury Park,
keyport,
music
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Holly House Apartments Evacuated; Red Cross, Salvation Army Provide Relief
A bizarre chain of events has forced 76 residents of Holly House Apartments, 100 Drury Avenue, Asbury Park to vacate 42 affected units. According to reports from the scene, an errant city plow gouged a utility pole yesterday morning, prompting the phone company to replace the pole. They damaged a gas line while installing the pole, resulting in evacuation of the building. The gas company then blew a power transformer while repairing the gas line. JCP&L proceeded to cause a chain of additional transformers to blow while attempting the installation of refurbished equipment. The repairs continue at this hour. Hopefully residents will be able to return to their homes later tonight once power is restored.
Up to 35 persons have sought refuge across the street at Asbury Park High School, where the Jersey Coast Regional Chapter of the American Red Cross has set up a shelter with half a dozen or so volunteers on any given shift. The Salvation Army provided hot dogs, hamburgers, french fries, and snacks today for those displaced by the outages. The scene has been visited by the local mayor, city manager, and the president of the board of education, among others.
Consider donating to or volunteering for the American Red Cross. You can help your community in lots of ways.
25 Jan Update
The Asbury Park Press finally published a story on this incident after receiving a press release from the Red Cross.
Up to 35 persons have sought refuge across the street at Asbury Park High School, where the Jersey Coast Regional Chapter of the American Red Cross has set up a shelter with half a dozen or so volunteers on any given shift. The Salvation Army provided hot dogs, hamburgers, french fries, and snacks today for those displaced by the outages. The scene has been visited by the local mayor, city manager, and the president of the board of education, among others.
Consider donating to or volunteering for the American Red Cross. You can help your community in lots of ways.
25 Jan Update
The Asbury Park Press finally published a story on this incident after receiving a press release from the Red Cross.
Labels:
Asbury Park,
community support,
disabled,
Red Cross
Monday, January 17, 2011
History: Martin Luther King Jr Memorials, April 1968
In the wake of the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr on 4 April 1968, the Jersey shore region was dotted with memorials to the man and his struggle for nonviolence, according to a cover article in The Matawan Journal a week later. 500 people had gathered on Sunday for a memorial at The First Presbyterian Church in Matawan. 2000 had marched to Marine Park in Red Bank and an equivalent number had processed to an interfaith service in Asbury Park.
The paper (page 4 col 1) remarked on the great restraint shown by African Americans in Monmouth County after the shooting and expressed its hope that the strong attendance by whites at the region's MLK memorials would demonstrate that the sadness over his loss was an emotion shared by the entire community.
The paper (page 4 col 1) remarked on the great restraint shown by African Americans in Monmouth County after the shooting and expressed its hope that the strong attendance by whites at the region's MLK memorials would demonstrate that the sadness over his loss was an emotion shared by the entire community.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Manning the Waterstop
The George Sheehan Classic was held this morning in Red Bank. One of the lesser known aspects of this footrace is the volunteer effort to man waterstops. For nearly fifteen years, my wife and daughter have been joining my wife's friends from the now-defunct Prudential Property and Casualty Company in Holmdel in providing water to runners on Hance Avenue at Waterstop 3. Some of her friends have been handing out water cups for 25 years, when the race was held in Asbury Park. More and more, the task is being adopted by the next generation. My daughter even brought her boyfriend along. A great time was had by all.
Monday, March 22, 2010
8th Annual Garden State Film Festival Begins Friday
The Asbury Park Press is once again sponsoring the annual Garden State Film Festival at the Paramount Theatre and other venues in Asbury Park. Check the festival website for a list of films and when they are playing, schedules of panel discussions, special events, a list of 2010 honorees, and additional attractions. There will be a chance to meet the film makers hosted by the Arts Coalition of Asbury Park. Be sure to look for discounts and special offers related to the festival. The site even offers Festival 101, for those who are unfamiliar with film festivals or need a reminder of how they work. Get your tickets because they are going fast.
Labels:
Asbury Park,
festivals,
film
Friday, June 12, 2009
Monmouth and Ocean County Summer Events 2009

The Jersey Shore Fine Arts Festival, sponsored by the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce, features over 90 exhibitors in a juried art show being held this weekend, 13-14 June 2009, at Barnegat Avenue and 5th Street in Beach Haven.

Wave Gathering Music Festival 2009 is next weekend, 19-21 June, in Asbury Park. A free street festival is scheduled for 20 June from noon to 6pm on Cookman Avenue. The promoters strongly recommend taking NJ Transit trains or buses to the festival, which is located within easy walking distance of the station. Check here for further information and directions.
The George Sheehan Classic is a shore tradition. The race is being held in Red Bank on Saturday 13 June 2009. Check the website for further information and directions.
Aberdeen Township and Matawan Borough are co-sponsoring an Idol Singing Contest on 4 August 2009. Applications are available for residents grades 6 to 12. Contestants compete for cash prizes. Auditions are 13 July 2009. The event is part of the National Night Out Against Crime.
Labels:
Asbury Park,
Barnegat,
festivals,
George Sheehan Classic,
Matawan,
NJ Transit
Saturday, March 28, 2009
7th Annual Garden State Film Festival
The Seventh Annual Garden State Film Festival is set to run 2 - 5 April 2009 at the Paramount Theater and other venues in Asbury Park. If you'd like to attend, here are links to the schedule and directions. The website is full of places to eat, lists of the glitterati who are expected to be there, even instructions on how to volunteer (lots of the staffing of this festival will be volunteers). The event was recently covered in The New York Times.The City of Asbury Park is having a renaissance. Check it out.
Labels:
Asbury Park,
festivals,
film
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