Belmar, a town located in Monmouth County, New Jersey, is a small but vibrant community with a long and distinguished history that stretches back to the 1800s. It has been an integral part of the county’s landscape for centuries and continues to be a destination for locals and visitors alike who wish to explore its unique cultural heritage.
If you would like to learn about the past of this delightful town, there are various museums, landmarks, and historically significant places nearby that can be visited.
This article will showcase some of the most fascinating and noteworthy sites to explore in and around Belmar. We will take a look at a few of the remarkable places that are worth visiting, such as historically significant landmarks.
Nearby Museums
1. Township of Ocean Historical Museum
Located in nearby Ocean, NJ, the Township of Ocean Historical Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The museum is housed in the Eden Woolley House, a Victorian-era home built in 1747 that was once a tavern, stagecoach stop, and post office. The museum is filled with artifacts, exhibits, and information about the history of the area, including exhibits on the Revolutionary War, early transportation, and local industries. In addition, the museum has a research library with resources for genealogical and historical research.
2. The Information Age Learning Center
The Information Age Learning Center is located in Wall Township and is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the information age. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from early telegraph systems to modern computer technology. Visitors can explore interactive displays, historic artifacts, and multimedia exhibits to learn about the impact of technology on society. The museum also offers educational programs and workshops for children and adults.
3. The New Jersey Museum of Transportation
Also located in Wall Township, the New Jersey Museum of Transportation is dedicated to preserving the state’s transportation heritage. The museum’s collection includes vintage cars, trucks, and buses, as well as historic trains and trolleys. Visitors can take a ride on one of the museum’s restored trolleys or explore the collection of antique cars and trucks. The museum also has a collection of artifacts and photographs documenting the history of transportation in New Jersey.
4. The Historic Village at Allaire
The Historic Village at Allaire is located in Wall Township and is a living history museum that recreates life in a 19th-century iron-making community. The village is home to historic buildings, including a general store, blacksmith shop, and chapel. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the village on their own, interacting with costumed interpreters who bring the history of the community to life. In addition, the village hosts special events throughout the year, including an annual holiday candlelight tour.
5. Monmouth Museum
The Monmouth Museum is located in nearby Lincroft and features exhibits on art, science, and local history. The museum has a collection of over 10,000 art objects, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. In addition, the museum hosts a range of educational programs and workshops for all ages, including art classes, science camps, and cultural events.
6. Vintage Automobile Museum
Located in Point Pleasant, the Vintage Automobile Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. The museum features a collection of antique and classic cars, as well as memorabilia and artifacts from the early days of the automobile industry. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and take a guided tour to learn about the history of the automobile.
7. Eatontown Historical Museum
The Eatontown Historical Museum is located in nearby Eatontown and features exhibits on local history, including the Revolutionary War and the town’s industrial past. The museum is housed in a former school building and has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the town and its people.
8. National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey
The National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey is located in Sea Girt and is dedicated to preserving the history of the state’s National Guard. The museum has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the National Guard from its inception in 1664 to the present day. Visitors can explore exhibits on the Civil War, World War I and II, and the War on Terror. In addition, the museum has a collection of military vehicles, including tanks and helicopters, and hosts a range of educational programs and events throughout the year.
9. Lakewood Historic Museum
The Lakewood Historic Museum is located in Lakewood and is dedicated to preserving the history of the town and the surrounding area. The museum houses an array of artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle the evolution of the town from its farming beginnings to its emergence as a resort destination in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore exhibits on local industries, including cranberry farming and brick making, and learn about the town’s cultural heritage.
10. Sephardic Heritage & Museum
The Sephardic Heritage & Museum is located in Lakewood and is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Sephardic Jewish community. The museum has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the community’s migration from Spain and Portugal to the Middle East and North Africa. Visitors can explore exhibits on Sephardic history, culture, and religion, as well as the community’s impact on the broader Jewish world.
Landmarks
1. Founders Park Fountain
The Founders Park Fountain is located in nearby Ocean Grove and is a landmark of the town. The fountain was built in the early 20th century as a memorial to the founders of Ocean Grove and features a statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. Visitors can stroll around the park and take in the picturesque views of the fountain and the surrounding area.
2. The Information Age Learning Center
The Information Age Learning Center is housed in a historic building in Wall Township and is a landmark of the area. The building was originally built in the 1940s as part of the Marconi Wireless Telegraph Company and was later used by the US Navy during World War II. Today, the building is home to the Information Age Learning Center, which is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the information age.
3. Ocean Grove
Ocean Grove is a historic town located just a few miles from Belmar. The town was founded in the late 1800s as a Christian seaside resort and is known for its Victorian-era architecture and beautiful beaches. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, explore the town’s historic landmarks, and take in the picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Belmar Bridge
The Belmar Bridge is a historic landmark of the town and is an important transportation link for the area. The bridge spans the Shark River and provides access to the Belmar Marina and the town’s beaches. Visitors can stroll along the bridge and take in the beautiful views of the river and the surrounding area.
5. Old Wall Historical Society
The Old Wall Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the history of Wall Township and the surrounding area. The society operates a museum and research center that features exhibits on local history, including the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and the town’s agricultural and industrial past. The society also hosts a range of educational programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, tours, and special exhibits.
Historic Sites
1. Belmar Train Station
The Belmar Train Station is a historic site in the town that dates back to the late 19th century. The station was built by the Central Railroad of New Jersey and served as a transportation hub for the area for many years. Today, the station is still in use and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2. St. Rose Church
St. Rose Church is a historic Catholic church located in Belmar. The church was founded in the late 19th century and has been an important part of the community ever since. The church is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture and is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
3. Belmar Public Library
The Belmar Public Library is a historic building that was originally built in the early 20th century as a public school. The building was later converted into a library and has been an important part of the community ever since. Today, the library is still in use and features a collection of books, periodicals, and multimedia resources.
4. Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association
The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association is a historic site located in nearby Ocean Grove. The association was founded in the late 19th century as a Christian camp meeting and has since evolved into a year-round community. Visitors can explore the historic buildings and grounds and learn about the association’s history and mission.
5. The Belmar Hotel
The Belmar Hotel is a historic hotel located in the heart of the town. The hotel was originally built in the early 20th century and has since been restored to its former glory. Visitors can stay in one of the hotel’s elegant rooms and take in the beautiful views of the town and the surrounding area.
Exploring Belmar’s History
Belmar is a town with a rich history that is waiting to be explored. Whether you are interested in local museums, landmarks, or historic sites, there is something for everyone in this charming New Jersey town.
Start your journey by visiting one of the many local museums, such as the Township of Ocean Historical Museum or the Vintage Automobile Museum. These museums offer a glimpse into the town’s past and showcase its unique cultural heritage.
If you are looking to explore some of the area’s most notable landmarks, be sure to check out the Founders Park Fountain or the Belmar Bridge. These landmarks are not only beautiful to look at, but they also offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history.
Finally, if you want to dive deeper into the town’s history, be sure to visit some of the area’s most notable historic sites, such as the Belmar Train Station or St. Rose Church. These sites offer a unique perspective on the town’s past and allow visitors to connect with the community’s rich cultural heritage.
Overall, Belmar is a town with a deep and fascinating history that is just waiting to be explored. Whether you are a local or a visitor, there is something for everyone in this charming New Jersey town. So why not start your journey today and discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Belmar for yourself?