Ocean County Historical Society
26 Hadley Ave.
Toms River, NJ 08754
(732) 341-1880
www.oceancountyhistory.org/

This fine little museum is housed in an 1850 structure that was moved from a different Tom's River location in 1972. Inside, visitors will find a variety of displays that illustrate local history and 19th century American life.

The Victorian Kitchen displays a coal burning cast iron stove, an oak ice box, dry sink, and other items. Stoneware and Redware will be found here, as will a number of kitchen tools. The dining room includes a Country Empire sideboard and other beautiful furnishings.

The Cowperthwaite Parlour features a chandelier with etched cranberry globes, a fireback from Bergen Ironworks can be seen here, a Victorian sofa, and paintings by 19th century New Jersey artists.

An 1873 piano-forte built by F.G. Smith, Thomas A. Edison cylinder phonograph, Victor Talking Machine, and a number of string instruments are among the items that will be found in the Music Room.

The Jeffrey Children's Room features toy and doll collections, a Victorian baby carriage and more. A replica of a typical one-room school house with memorabilia, photos, and other items will be found in the Charles A. Morris School Room.

The Craft Room displays quilts, spinning tools, a spinning wheel, and other artifacts, while the John M. Birdsall Room displays fossils, Native American artifacts, local Revolutionary and Civil War artifacts, Lighter-than-Air memorabilia, and a variety of objects relating to Ocean County's past.

Still another exhibit space, the Myrtle A. Moore Room, features the early industries of Ocean County. Items represent charcoal making, saw milling, cranberrying, glass making, gunning, boat building, and many other activities that were instrumental in the growth of our societies and significant to the history of the area.

This museum has many stories to tell. Families can enjoy special events throughout the year, as well as museum-sponsored trips and other activities. Adult and School Groups can enjoy a Guided Tour. Speak to the museum staff about focusing on an area of interest.