The adjacent counties of Monmouth and Ocean County are rich in history. There are several historical sites that draw visitors in from around the country all year long. Here are some of the most popular historical sites in Monmouth and Ocean County, as well as a few off the beaten path.
Allaire Village and Allaire State Park
Located in Monmouth County on the outer coastal plain of New Jersey, Allaire State Park is over 3,000 acres of forest that is bisected by the Manasquan River. The park is known for historic Allaire Village that dates back to the 1700’s and is a perfect spot for hiking, camping and fishing.
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
The Battle of Monmouth is known as a political triumph for the Continental Army and General George Washington, where American troops had met the British Army and forced them to retreat. The park now features reenactments of the battle every summer and draws tourists from far and wide. Michael Gutman enjoys taking walks with his daughter at the Monmouth Battlefield State Park. Be sure to visit the museum and watch the 10 minute movie in the Museums theater. You will truly appreciate what a historical place we live…the heart of the American Revolution.
Located in the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park in Ocean County, the 40-feet tall Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as “Old Barney”, was built in 1856. It was used in coast guard navigation until 1944. It was restored by donated funds in the 1980s and now shines its light from dusk to dawn daily. While the original light was only 40 feet tall, the present standing lighthouse is approximately 170 feet tall, making it the second tallest lighthouse in New Jersey after Absecon Light.   Be sure to check out Sinbad a Coast Guard Dog, who is buried at the Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light. Sinbad was a mixed breed dog that was one of two animals to be classified as non-commission officers by an arm of the United States Military. More history for you to google when you walk around Barnegat Light. You may even find Michael Gutman fishing for Summer Flounder.
Historical doesn’t always mean boring. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, come see Lucy the Elephant, the oldest known roadside attraction. Located in Josephine Harron Park in Margate along the shore, Lucy stands six stories tall. She was built in 1881 by James Lafferty who felt she would draw visitors to his beach properties that were hidden in the distance by sand dunes. Visitors can climb the circular staircase inside her body to the top of the howdah on her back, where you have a beautiful 360-degree view of the shore.
Come see all these great historical sites in Monmouth and Ocean County.