Embracing the Deep, Historic Culture of Ocean City, New Jersey

Who Are the Friends of OCNJ History & Culture?

Our goal is to connect buyers, sellers, craftspeople, and realtors, and help shape both the conversation and the future of Ocean City.

We are a group of homeowners and history enthusiasts dedicated to educating and inspiring people about the rich history and culture of our wonderful town, with a special focus on its historic homes and buildings.

These structures are living embodiments of the city’s past and provide a visual link to its heritage. Our goal is to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this history, the value of these buildings, and to ensure their continued survival and contribution to the community. Friends of OCNJ History & Culture exists to support a forward-looking approach to preservation—one that strengthens the city’s quality of life while honoring what makes it unique.

We Believe…

Older homes can be functional, desirable, and financially viable.

Preserving them contributes to our city’s long-term value and should be something to celebrate, with pride in both individual homes and entire neighborhoods.

At the same time, we recognize that property rights matter. Homeowners deserve clear information, real options, and flexibility. Preservation should expand choices, not impose one-size-fits-all solutions. Friends acts as a practical partner, offering resources, connections, and support so owners can make informed decisions that reflect their needs and circumstances.

Education is central to everything we do. By sharing accessible tools, local knowledge, and hands-on opportunities to learn—from property histories to maps and owner resources—we help people engage and get involved.

We believe long-term preservation depends not just on regulation, but on making older homes attractive, valued choices in the marketplace.

  • 2835 Central Alley

  • The Bourse Building

  • 1710 9th Street

  • Torn Down Homes

  • 1336 Pleasure Avenue

A Brief History of Ocean City

Ocean City, New Jersey, was founded in the late 1800s as a Methodist seaside retreat. Over the next 150 years, hundreds of charming homes were built, ranging from quaint seaside cottages to grand Victorian mansions. These homes became integral to the Jersey Shore landscape, accommodating families who vacationed, worshiped, and helped shape the city. They housed a diverse mix of residents, including the wealthy and the modest, celebrities and locals, shopkeepers, industrialists, summer residents, and everyday people seeking a respite from their daily lives.

During that same period, churches of all denominations were established, ranging from modest, small places of worship to grand, cathedral-like structures that dominated the skyline. The sense of worship on the island was both tangible and visually stunning.

The foundation of worship, along with a focus on family and simple beach activities, was reflected in the charming structures that dotted the landscape, setting this seaside community apart. It wasn't just a place to visit; it was a home, whether as a residence or a cherished haven in the heart.

And, of course, beachside attractions emerged, including a grand boardwalk, an oceanfront music hall, a fishing pier, rides, arcades, shops, and miles of pristine, well-maintained beaches.

The foundation of worship, along with a focus on family and simple beach activities, was reflected in the charming structures that dotted the landscape, setting this seaside community apart. It wasn't just a place to visit; it was a home, whether as a residence or a cherished haven in the heart.

Unfortunately, the forces of change, development, and a growing disregard for historic structures have started to alter the city. Over the past 20 years, many of our cherished homes have been demolished. With each swing of the wrecking ball, Ocean City loses a piece of its history—and its soul. It’s time for this to end.

Still curious to know more about Friends?

  • We are a group of homeowners and history enthusiasts dedicated to educating and inspiring people about the rich history and culture of our wonderful town, with a special focus on its historic homes and buildings.

    We also work to find conscientious buyers of old homes who are interested in restoring and preserving historic homes instead of tearing them down. Friends acts as a practical partner, offering resources, connections, and support so owners and prospective owners can make informed decisions that reflect their needs and circumstances.

  • BECOME A FRIEND
    Join us as a member to support our mission, stay informed, get invites to the best events in town, and score a free calendar.

    DONATE
    Your generous contributions help fund our preservation and advocacy work.

    VOLUNTEER
    Email friendsocnj@gmail.com to learn more about volunteer opportunities.

  • BECOME A MEMBER
    For just $35 a years your membership includes:

    • A beautiful OCNJ calendar – featuring artist renderings of our town’s charm through the years.

    • First access to 2 FREE tickets for the beloved (and frequently sold out) Holiday Home Tour.

    • Invites to members-only events – like our Rum Running Adventure 2025 

    • 10% off merchandise – from keepsakes to the famous Dumpster Diving Team T-shirt.

  • No, we are not. But you to learn more about the Ocean City Historic Preservation Commission and their important work at https://services.ocnj.us/boards/historic.

  • Not quite…

    Ocean City Old Home Lovers, a group started by Richard Barth for enthusiasts to share and admire photos of old homes on Facebook, is one of our favorites.

    OC neighbors and Home Lovers began gathering online and in person at each other’s houses and porches to discuss saving 615 Wesley Avenue (which happened!)

    This collaboration and good times eventually led to the revival of a historic home tour and a petition for old-home-friendly building codes. From this work, Friends of OCNJ History & Culture, was officially established on August 2, 2024, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.