New Jersey’s coastline is legendary, a beloved stretch of sun-kissed beaches, charming towns, and a vibrant culture all its own. Among its most cherished gems is Long Beach Island (LBI), a place where the rhythmic crash of the waves seems to whisper tales of centuries past. More than just a summer escape, LBI boasts a history as dynamic and unpredictable as the ocean itself, a past so rich it has inspired a captivating historical-fiction series by author Joseph John Mezlo.
Mezlo’s two-part series, Long Beach Island: Those Who Dare and Those Who Strive, delves deep into the island’s evolution. He masterfully intertwines real historical events—from American Revolutionary-era skirmishes to the chilling shark attacks that famously inspired Jaws, and the devastating fallout of Hurricane Sandy—with the romantic drama of a fictional family dynasty. This family, rooted on LBI for generations, experiences love, loss, and the ever-changing tides of island life, ultimately helping to shape its destiny.
A Lifelong Connection and Surprising Discoveries
For Mezlo, LBI isn’t just a subject; it’s a deeply personal connection. He and his wife have been vacationing on the island for an incredible 55 years, watching their children grow up against its picturesque backdrop. This lifelong affinity ignited his desire to explore its history, a passion sparked by a friend, David Bohan, a lifelong LBI resident who shared fascinating family stories and a pride in the island’s heritage.
Mezlo’s extensive research for the series uncovered some truly surprising aspects of LBI’s past. One revelation was the sheer scale of the ancient cedar forest that once thrived around Harvey Cedars, complete with a freshwater pond. He envisioned it as a “paradise-like kind of setting,” a far cry from today’s landscape. The enduring presence of cedar stumps still unearthed during construction projects offers a tangible link to this lost natural wonder.
Another poignant discovery was the catastrophic shipwreck off Surf City that claimed over 400 lives in a single night. Mezlo recounted the horror of this event, noting the monument outside the Surf City Hotel that stands as a stark reminder of the tragedy. While he knew of LBI’s history of shipwrecks, the magnitude of this particular disaster deeply resonated with him.
The Enduring Spirit of LBI
What truly sets LBI apart from other parts of the sprawling Jersey Shore? Mezlo articulates a sentiment shared by many who cross its iconic causeway: “You cross that causeway; it’s like your troubles go away.” There’s an undeniable sense of relaxation and escape that envelops visitors upon arrival. Beyond its calming effect, LBI’s history itself is remarkably compelling.
Perhaps the most defining characteristic that distinguishes LBI, according to Mezlo, is the profound impact of the storms that have relentlessly reshaped the island and the lives of its inhabitants. Historical tempests, most notably Hurricane Sandy, have brought devastating effects, forever altering the landscape. Yet, in their wake, these challenges have also forged new opportunities and reinforced the resilient spirit of the LBI community. It’s a place that continually rebuilds, reinvents, and remembers, carrying its storied past into a vibrant future.
For anyone captivated by the blend of history, natural beauty, and enduring human spirit that defines the Jersey Shore, Long Beach Island offers an unparalleled experience. To dive deeper into the charm and history of this iconic New Jersey destination and other coastal treasures, make sure to explore our dedicated Jersey Shore section here: https://explorenewjersey.org/category/jersey-shore/. Discover the timeless tides and countless stories that make LBI a true gem of the Garden State.
