July 4 parade on Main Avenue in Ocean Grove. Running the swan show is proprietor Linda Occhipinti. Paul Goldfinger photo. 2017
From historian David H. Fox of the Historical Society of Ocean Grove: 7/2/23
“The use of Swan Boats on Wesley Lake has a surprisingly long history. The OGCMA authorized their use on 24 May 1889. They were presumably human powered as sail and steam boats were prohibited on the lake. I see there are a number of offerings in the current boats including swans, cranes, flamingoes, and even a dragon. Following the lead of Loch Ness, it seems every lake has to have some sort of monster.”
MEL TILLIS: