“Maria Thornley’s Tent” by Ocean Grove artist Jack Bredin. Photograph by Rob Bredin. 4/23/17. ©
Jack has introduced his work before on Blogfinger.net. You can type his name into the search box on top of this page to see more about this fine local painter.
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THE URI CAINE ENSEMBLE (Live):
Just saw this work and another of OG by Jack Bredin at Bradley Beach library art show. Jack has a rare talent.
Beautiful painting!
From the “Book of Historical Secrets” by Justin Truth:
“It was July of 1869, that Joseph Thornley and his wife, Maria came to what would become Ocean Grove for the first time. Nine other families gathered together along with them for rest and religious fellowship. They set up camp in what is now Founders Park. A few days later, on the evening of July 31st, the first religious service in Ocean Grove was held at the urging of Mrs. Thornley in the Thornley tent.
It was here at the Thornley Tent Meeting, that Ocean Grove was born”.
-Ocean Grove Record. 8-5-1882.
It’s possible the elders pictured are discussing plans to cut down some trees to add more tents. The townfolk are worried that this act might lead to over development and loss of most of the trees thereby ruining Ocean Grove as they know it. The elders assure them that they will not let this happen. Another concern is where the new tenters will park their boats. As you can see the parking for boats is limited. And so, life goes on as does Ocean Grove.
Including Thornley Chapel is a nice tribute to Reverend Thornley. I am conjecturing the 3 gentlemen to the left are The Reverands Osborne, Thornley and Stokes.
Jack Bredin has once again brought to life an important part of Ocean Grove’s history in this fine painting.