Losing History One Piece at A Time

If you know me personally, you know I'm a history buff. Especially local history, such as landmarks, historic buildings, and people.

Unfortunatley I've noticed those landmarks are disappearing, beging replaced by modern buildings, or parking lots. Some need to go, some don't.

I believe Toms River had two very huge historical losses in the past decade. The original Toms River High School building (better known as the J-building) and The Old Time Tavern.

I'm very proud of my school's history, and unfortunately had I not been a history geek that I am, I would not have known what the J-Building is. I've heard very mixed opinions regarding the removal of the J-building, with most going to the negative side (including mine).

The building was a very beautiful structure and very historical. I know former students that went there when it was the Alternative School, and they said it was very poorly taken care of, especially in later years.

The Old Time Tavern as we came to know it, was a very huge loss to the town. The Tavern (which was older than the J-Building) was torn down for nothing. These locations are now homes to....nothing but parking lots!

Toms River and Ocean County is full of heritage and history. I am proud to call Toms River my home, and I wish we could preserve its history just a little more before it's too late.