Books by OCHS

By Brian Bovasso: Over a long period of time, Brian Bovasso developed an interest in the Ortley family and the Cranberry Inlet. While writing his first two local history books, he realized what a dramatic influence the Cranberry Inlet and the Ortley family had on the history of this section of the barrier island. This 148 page, illustrated book provides answers to many questions about this area of the barrier island of Ocean County.

By Samuel Vaughn Merrick:  A combination of Sam Merrick’s biography of F, Slade Dale and Dale’s own writings about his nautical exploits throughout his life.  An unusual gentleman, Dale developed his love of boats in the waters of Ocean County.  

Compiled by E. P. Groot:  The material in this book contains the contents of thirty-nine reports from the U.S. Life-Saving Service from 1876 to 1914.  Of particular interest are descriptions of the individual stations, their personnel, and their activities.  There are narratives describing the services provided by crewmen.  Another section is devoted entirely to accidents.  Find out about rescues and/or salvage of a particular ship and/or its crew and passengers as well as the many miscellaneous services that were provided.

By Carolyn M. Campbell, M. Peryl King, Martha T. Smith:  The story of one-room schools moves from the mid 1800’s, when schools were in such disrepair that chickarees (squirrels) nested in the walls, to 1943 when the last one-room school was closed.   Over 100 photos and maps, interviews with teachers and pupils, and quotations from the time emphasize the changes that have occurred in education during this century.  Specific information about the county’s 76 one-room and 8 multiroom schools is given in the directory.