Asbury Park, New Jersey:
Asbury Park was founded as vacant beachfront property during the 1870s and by the 1880s was attracting over half a million people during the summer months. It's real boom period occurred between the 1920s and the 1960s, however, when it was the Jersey Shore's number one destination. It's downfall came about due to race riots that began during the 4th of July weekend in 1970. Visitors never returned. During the 70s, 80s, and 90's all attempts to revitalize Asbury Park were thwarted by government corruption. As a result, every town surrounding Asbury Park prospered, while Asbury Park crumbled. The once beautiful city and it's world-class Boardwalk fell into total disrepair. Throughout it's abandonment, however, Asbury Park did offer a few rays of hope... the Howard Johnson's restaurant on the Boardwalk still packed 'em in year round, as did the Stone Pony night club, which was made famous by Bruce Springsteen. Today, there are plans to completely rebuild most of Asbury Park from the ground up, and renovations have already begun along the Boardwalk.
For additional information please visit:
