Museum at Old First
United Methodist Church
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A museum at Old First was originally proposed by church member Louis Barbour. Mr. Barbour and his wife Sarah invited Ruth and John DeBruin for a foliage trip through New England.
During the trip the two couples visited a number of museums which gave Mr. Barbour the idea for a museum at Old First. The purpose would be to collect and preserve church memorabilia. Permission was granted to use a room on the lower level of the Education Building. A committee was formed and, after several months of painting, carpeting and collecting enough items for exhibit, the one room museum was officially opened on October 24, 1971. Today the museum has grown from one room to three. It makes history come alive with a wonderful collection of items portraying yesterday's way of life. Special exhibits are offered through the year. Tours are given by appointment. In 2008 the committee participated in the West Long Branch Borough's Centennial with a traditional English tea. The museum was opened for a special exhibit of West Long Branch through the years. For several years the committee has provided items for the History and Archives Day at the Monmouth County Library. Scouts, students and various other groups have been pleasantly surprised when visiting this most unique museum which houses much more than church memorabilia. |