– JUNE NEWSLETTER –

Hello Friends!

It’s been an exciting few weeks for Friends as we celebrated May Historic Preservation Month here in Ocean City. A few Friends members braved the cold temperatures to help “Unlock the Ocean” alongside local organizations and community leaders, taking part in the annual Business Persons Plunge in vintage-inspired swimwear to celebrate the start of the summer season (see photos & video above).

We also kicked off the season with our first monthly Preservation Porch Party of the summer, bringing neighbors and members together for conversation, fun, and community around preserving Ocean City’s historic homes and landmarks. Join us at our next one on June 18!

Looking ahead, we’re excited for some new upcoming events and initiatives. Join us for a special visit to the Cape May County Clerk’s Office to learn how to research the history of your historic home, and be sure to mark your calendars for our annual Garden Tour in July, one of the highlights of the summer season. More information on all these events available below.

We hope to see you soon!

Sne Avichal
President, Friends of OCNJ History and Culture

– OUR NEXT EVENT! –

Cape May County Clerk’s Office Visit

Thursday, June 18, 2026, 10:00 am—6:00 pm
Have you always wanted to learn more about the history of your home? Join Friends hosts Marie Crawford and Sne Avichal for a day trip to the Cape May County Clerk’s Office where you’ll be able to dive into the records room to learn more about your property deeds, assisted by Friends volunteers. We’ll also stop at a historic location to enjoy lunch together.

$45 per person, includes jitney transportation to and from Scarborough Inn (720 Ocean Avenue, Ocean City, NJ). Please, note, the cost of lunch is not included.

RSVP to sne@friendsocnj.org.

Preservation Porch Party
Thursday, June 18, 2026, 6:00 pm—8:00 pm
(3rd Thursday of the month all summer)
Join us at our next monthly community meeting where we’ll discuss issues related to the preservation of Ocean City’s historic and older homes and landmarks, and then listen to some live music on the Scarborough Inn porch. Your voice and ideas are important as we work together to protect the history that makes our town so special.

2026 Garden Tour

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Save the date and get ready to explore the beautiful gardens of Ocean City! This self-guided tour showcases some of the most beautiful private gardens around town, and it’s always a highlight of the season. Mark your calendars today!

And… if you have an old Ocean City home with a garden that you'd like to showcase, please let us know! We'd love to feature you and we have spots for a few more special participants. (Get in touch HERE.)

– IN THE NEWS –

IN HIS ESSAY published in the May 28, 2026, Shore Local, Sne Avichal shares why one of Ocean City’s greatest and most unique advantages for the future is in celebrating the stories, traditions, and architecture of its past. Avichal makes a strong argument for not only the value of history for history’s sake, but the very real economic power of heritage tourism and property values.

READ MORE

WALKING INTO LISA SARAJIAN’S HOME is like stepping back in time. Built in 1928, it reflects many features of Craftsman homes including a gabled roof, wrap-around porch, hardwood floors and magnificent interior staircase with two landings…  

READ MORE

Celebrate the place where your family’s memories are made with a Historic Home Plaque from Friends of OCNJ. Available for homes and buildings built before 1957, each plaque features the year your home was built and an optional personalized line.

It’s a meaningful way to honor Ocean City’s rich history while highlighting the stories that make each home unique.

• Cost: $100

• Details: 9” x 7” durable composite in black and gold and comes with weatherproof mounting hardware and template.

• Eligibility: Homes built before 1957, anywhere on the island— not just within the Historic District.

HAVE MORE FUN WITH FRIENDS!

Looking to get involved with Friends of OCNJ History & Culture? There are a few ways:

1. Volunteer: Sign up to support our events, tours, and other exciting initiatives.

2. Become a Host: Share your home or garden with the community for one of our upcoming tours (apply here for our July garden tour.)

3. Spread the Word: If you’re not already a member, join today, and/or encourage friends and family to be part of our wonderful movement.

4. Share your Thoughts! Reach out with any questions or ideas by emailing us at friendsocnj@gmail.com.