Fine family living is truly possible in the quaint, residential community of Fair Haven. Typical of the entire Eastern Monmouth County area, Fair Haven is a suitable choice for families seeking a quiet yet lovely retreat complete with the much-sought-after convenience of local shopping, schools and churches. Situated on the picturesque southern point of Navesink River, the area known today as Fair Haven first began attracting residents in the mid-1800’s when the small town served as a stopover for steamboats that traveled to and from New York from nearby Red Bank. Boating was and remains a popular pastime throughout the area. Fair Haven has been maintained as a beautiful community. What do a train station and post office have in common? The roots of Little Silver Borough, the delightfully charming historical settlement located on the north bank of the Shrewsbury River in Eastern Monmouth County. Although Little Silver began as a home to merchants, fishermen and farmers in the seventeenth century, it really became popular in the 1800’s when it served as a famous railroad station. The Little Silver Historical Society operates from the Post Office Museum as the caretaker of Little Silver annals. All are invited to explore the wonders of Little Silver, past and present. Today, many enjoy boating and other watersports in this fine residential area, just a stone’s throw from the calm waters of the Shrewsbury estuary. Boating enthusiasts abound in Monmouth Beach Borough, a small area of land located between the Shrewsbury River and the Atlantic Ocean. Primarily a residential community, Monmouth Beach boasts a popular harbor featuring two marinas. Once the farm of a Quaker named Eliakim Wardell, Monmouth Beach evolved into a much-visited resort with access to both the calm inland river waters as well as the pounding Atlantic surf. In 1871, the Monmouth Beach Association was formed with designs to develop the area into an exclusive resorts. There is the feel of seafarers life in Monmouth Beach—such as sand dunes, dune grass, bulk heads, salt air, sailboats and more. Some find rest and others find sport, but all who know Monmouth Beach find that it makes a wonderful place to live. One of the few communities complemented with a skyline, Red Bank offers its residents and those of neighboring towns a wide variety of services, activities and conveniences in its role of a bustling commercial center. Monmouth County Arts Center featuring the Count Basie Theater; a host of financial institutions; an attractive victorian-style business district; a state and nationally-registered historic railroad station; various private marinas; and the Antique Center of Red Bank. Borough of Red Bank includes a gathering of residents from different social, religious, economic and racial backgrounds, all living and working together to make their home a source of pride and envy. Take the time to explore all the nooks and crannies of this inviting hub. The thunder of racing horses can be witnessed on a summer’s day at the exciting Monmouth Park Racetrack located in Eastern Monmouth County’s Oceanport Borough. Located at the head of the Shrewsbury River, the borough dates back to 1663 when it was settled by European colonists and boasts a rich history including a stint as a booming port town. Oceanport was an essential port established for trade with New York City. The introduction of the Long Branch railroad several decades later gradually decreased the need for port activities. Although changes have taken place, they have not affected the quality of life for the residents of this suburban community. People have always taken advantage of the many fine services available in this appealing borough on the Shrewsbury River. BeachcomberMagazine.com
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Photos 2011 ©Beachcomber Magazine
Exploring Eastern Monmouth County