Historic Ocean City Tree Gets New Home

OCEAN CITY, NJ — In 1879, Rev. S. Wesley Lake, his brothers Ezra and James along with Rev. William B. Wood met under a cedar tree to pray over plans to create a Christian retreat.

That tree marked the spot where Ocean City was founded 143 years ago. Now, history lovers and Ocean City lovers alike can see that tree in its new home at the Ocean City Historical Museum, Mayor Jay A. Gillian announced in his weekly Mayor's Update.

The exhibit tells that the four men met under the tree and "'prayed for God’s guidance and blessing on their plans' to create a Christian retreat on the undeveloped island," Gillian said.

Visit the Ocean City Historical Museum to learn all about the founding of the island community and its rich history.

The Ocean City Historical Museum is located in the Ocean City Community Center, 1735 Simpson Ave. It is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and has free admission.

"If you’ve never visited our museum, this is a great opportunity to check out the new exhibit and everything the facility has to offer," Gillian said.