By Jane A. Cunningham COLD SPRINGS - While the early colonists of the Upper Precinct of Cape

Old Brick Rich In History

may County were mostly Quakers, those in the southern section (Lower Precinct) were

predominently Presbyterians. New England whalers were the first white settlers of Cape May County. In the

latter half of the 17th century when whaling was a major industry, ships would follow the whales to the area beyond the mouth of the Delaware Bay and harvest the ocean of its desirable crop. Many of the ships would land on the county’s Delaware shore before they returned to New England. Some of these whalers found southern New Jersey more hospitable in climate and less structured in society than ’’New England and brought their families to settle near Town Bank. Many of the pioneers came from Connecticut where t|Te Presbyterian

denomination was a strong influence. As in most newly populated areas, devout church members usually met in private homes to conduct their services. Services may also have been held at Coxe Hall, a large residence built by Dr. Daniel Coxe in 1691. Dr. Coxe, an English physician owned much of New Jersey, and built the mansion intending to live in it. He never left England, but permitted his building to be used for. meetings and church services. The Cold Spring (or Cape May, as it was then called) Presbyterian Church was

founded in 1714. It is the second oldest church in the " county, among the oldest in the country, and one of the first to have a pastor. In 1718, the first building, a small log structure, was erected on Seashore Road, probably on the site of the present church. The sun provided the only illumination, which meant daytime services only. It was also unheated, as it was felt to be somewhat sinful to be too comfortable while worshipping. >It was called “The Meeting House”. The first pastor, The Reverend John Bradnor, a native of Scotland, seems (Page 19 Please)

OLD BRICK, as It is affectionately known in Lower Township. The Cold Spring Presbyterian Church is one of Ihe oldest In the county. Built in 1714, its bells still call a congregation to worship every Sunday.

Avalon’s First Family Day

Family Fun In The Sun

AVALON — Avalon’s first Family Day was a roaring success. The daylong celebration with its many family centered activities was a unique

occurence and one sure to set trends in other resorts. A community activity that generates the public spirit that went into Avalon’s ^Family Day is

rare indeed. Family Day replaces the annual Baby Parade of past years. Many # resort residents were personally involved in the success of Family Day.

GIDbY—YUP! — Nearly 500 youngsters got to ride either on a pony or on a pony cart. The rides were given in the kiddie’s playground next to Community hall where all the day’s events were held. Lines went quickly and children waiting had the chance to play on the playground equipment while awaiting their free rides.

AND, THEY’RE OFF! — One of Ihe first events In Avalon’s Family back two times. Hie event helped to start the day s festivities which lasted all day long until midnight. There were neariy forty entrie| In the bike race.

Even more approximately 3,500 participated in the events that found family members challenging each

other.

There were 14 categories

theme “International Year of the Child” as the focal

point for all activities. Gasoline* conservation

was also achieved with the

to enter, each having seven^ entire resort being able to age groups ranging from ' enjoy a day df family-

under 8 to over 45. In addition there was a male and female winner, for a combination of 119 prizes. Trophies were given to the first place winners ribbons went to second and third

place winners.

centered near-by activities. Many people walked or rode bicycles to the Community Hall located at 30th Street and Avalon Avenue where all the day’s activities took

place.

A magic show in the afternoon helped to entertain the youngsters who tried hard to figure out where the curious magic items were coming from and going to. Pony cart rides made youngsters squeal with delight and helped to engrave memories in the minds of the small fry and their parents. Children were the central focus of the day's events with the United Nations’

Saturday morning at 8:30 children and adults alike raced their bicycles on Dune Drive as the first event of the day got underway. Opening ceremonies were held in Community Hall at 9:30 a.m. Avalon Mayor Ellsworth Armacost •aid. “We here in Ayalon are extremely proud to have initiated the Idea of a Family Day and we hope that all people here today will remember the fun they

had here with their family." “We still believe that the FAMILY is the singular unit that helps to keep our nation great," the mayor added. Megan Westhead, Little Miss Avalon, and her court will remember their presentations Saturday afternoon as they helped to give out the 119 prizes to winners.

Later in the evening after Avalon’s families had had a chance to relax and have dinner, it was the adults turn to enjoy a dance at Community Hall where A1 Raymond and his Orchestra played from nine until midnight. In the estimation of everyone who enjoyed Family Day. it wiU belong remembers and something to look forward to next