Happy Birthday Monmouth Beach

Happy 120th Birthday! – Borough of Monmouth Beach, NJ

On March 9, 1906, Monmouth Beach was officially incorporated as an independent borough. Although known as “Monmouth Beach” as far back as 1870, it really wasn’t official until 1906. From its settlement beginnings in 1668, it was also known as “Wardell’s Beach” on most maps of the times until 1849 when it became part of Ocean Twp.

The first-ever Monmouth Beach election was held in April 1906. The form of government the town started with was partisan – with a mayor and council six council members. Fewer than 125 residents cast ballots.

The Democrat ticket swept the new borough — led by new mayor, William Heitzman and new borough council members: Garrett H. White, John A. Maney, James Butler, William Applegate, E. Borden West, and Abram O. Johnson.

In 1929, the town changed from 7 elected officials to just 3 when it adopted the commission form of government, which prevails today.

William Heitzman, 1906. First Mayor of Monmouth Beach