Revisit Yesteryear’s NJ Theme Parks at the Ocean County Library Plumsted Branch

PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP – Outdoor family entertainment continually changes in style and structure, especially in tourism meccas such as the beachfronts of the Garden State. Take a fond look back at the way it once was. Join us for a visit to “Lost Amusement Parks of the North Jersey Shore,” 2 PM Thursday, May 15 at the Ocean County Library Plumsted Branch.

Historian and author Rick Geffken’s presentation will combine rare images from the Library of Congress, local historical societies, and private collections to illustrate how the Jersey Shore became the most famous vacation and recreational destination in the coastal United States.

The details capture a simpler way of American life, when families visited the boardwalks to savor candy apples, salt water taffy, hot dogs and burgers, popcorn, and, of course, the rides.

Rick’s book Lost Amusement Parks of the North Jersey Shore is available for borrowing at the Ocean County Library. Among his many other historical works, 2019’s Hidden History of Monmouth County and 2021’s Stories of Slavery in New Jersey are catalogued in OCL’s Reference Library.

He also produced numerous articles on New Jersey history and led discussions for the New Jersey History & Historic Preservation, New Jersey Education Association, New Jersey Library Association, and the Institute for Advanced Study. In 2023, the Monmouth County Historical Association recognized Rick for historical contributions and the Monmouth County Clerk acknowledged his efforts toward the preservation of county history.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/OclGeffken to attend this free program. For more information, stop by the OCL Plumsted Branch, 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt, or call (609) 758-7888. See the full schedule of Library programs in the online Calendar of Events.

OCL turns 100 this year and you’re why we’re celebrating! See details on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, Pinterest and www.theoceancountylibrary.org.