About
Who We Are
Background
The Ocean City Historical Museum is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation established in April 1964, and became a nonprofit in 1966. It was created by a group of enthusiastic volunteers with the support of the local government. The purpose of the Museum is to preserve the city’s history for future generations for both visitors and residents.
The first museum was located on the first floor of the old elementary school at 409 Wesley Avenue. It was only open during the summer of its first full year, as the building was still being used as a school. In July of 1965, it was opened for year round visitors when the school moved to its new location. The museum moved to its current location at the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue in 1990.
Mission
The Mission of the Ocean City Historical Museum, Inc, is to maintain and operate a quality Historical Museum in Ocean City, New Jersey with the cooperation and assistance of the City of Ocean City. The specific goals of the Ocean City Historical Museum, Inc. are to collect, preserve and display objects of historical worth and interest of Ocean City; and to provide educational and cultural programs pertaining to Ocean City, New Jersey and surrounding areas.
Vision
The vision of the Ocean City Historical Museum is to be an inviting, informative and innovative community resource that is recognized and respected as the place for exploring and celebrating the rich history and heritage of Ocean City, New Jersey.
2026 Officers and Trustees
PRESIDENT
S. John Loeper
VICE PRESIDENT
Kenneth Cooper
SECRETARY
Jodi L. King
TREASURER
Carol E. Dotts
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Elizabeth Bowman
Albert Crescenzo
Jay Gillian
Shannon Halliday
Michael McMahon
Duane Sonneborn
TRUSTEE EMERITI
Richard Grimes*
Douglass Longenecker*
Fred Miller
Dr. Robert Mohr*
Margaret Schock
Dr. Richard Stanislaw*
Babs Stefano
Dorothy Turner*
Noel Wirth*
*Deceased