Jersey Shore Magazine

J e r s e y s h o r e • s p r i n g 2 0 1 5 48 JERSEY SHORE IMAGES Ocean Grove in Bloom • Photographs by Kelly S. Andrews • O cean Grove is known by some as "God's square mile at the Jersey Shore." Founded by Methodists in 1869 as a camp meet- ing ground, it is still flourishing today for its original purpose. For 145 years, the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association has been about the business of providing a place for spiritual birth, growth, and renewal in this beautiful seaside town. Ocean Grove, which is a National Historic District, features authentic Victorian architecture and is filled with all the charm and peace of a bygone era. The centerpiece of the town is the historic Great Auditorium and surrounding summer tent commu- nity. In the summer months, the auditorium offers worship and praise events, concerts, and recitals on the 107-year-old Hope-Jones pipe organ as well as popular entertainment, a classical music series, and Christian concerts. Strolling the streets of Ocean Grove in spring and early summer is like stepping back in time to a simpler, friendlier place. Tree-lined streets, Victorian homes, and the tent community are just a few of the treasures to be found in this one- square-mile town. There are also spectacular gardens tucked in and around the homes and tents, and even by the beachfront. The pristine beach and commercial free boardwalk look much the same as they did in the 1800s. A large community of artists exhibits in the local shops and at the annual arts and craft shows in the spring and fall. Antique shows, vintage car shows, choir festivals, and the summer concerts offer something for everyone. One of the most beautiful towns along the Jersey Shore, at no season is Ocean Grove more stunning than when in full bloom. In these images from spring and early summer's past, photographer Kelly Andrews captures Ocean Grove in all its glory.

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