Cornerstone event at the future site of the Francis Asbury Manor. August 23, 1947 in Ocean Grove, New Jersey. Photo source: Janet Carrato of the UMHNJ. Left click to see this image in full frame view.
This photo is of the Pilgrimage of Service and Laying of Cornerstone which took place in Ocean Grove on August 23, 1947. Construction begun immediately thereafter and the first residents moved in on November 29, 1949. On September 8, 1951 it was dedicated as the Methodist Home For the Aged of New Jersey.
Although the land was purchased in 1937, the building got delayed due to World War II. In 1970 the senior residence was renamed Francis Asbury Manor.
Editor’s note: Thank you to Janet Carrato, Director of Communications and Public Relations of the United Methodist Homes of New Jersey, for sharing this OG historical anecdote with us on Blogfinger.
—Paul Goldfinger, Editor.