at The
of The Jersey Shore
Discover Treasures of Yesterday & Today Fascinating History - 2024 Summer Events
The Jewel of the Jersey Shore still sparkles after 100 years
A lot happens in a hundred years: wars, hurricanes, fires, Prohibition, The Great Depression and more. The Flanders Hotel has withstood much adversity and hardship throughout its existence. Nonetheless, it has remained Ocean City’s premier accommodation, a landmark known throughout the region, state, and even the nation, for over 100 years. Elegance never goes out of style.
Vacationers from every state have marveled at the towering structure as one of the great hotels along the Jersey shore. In fact, even mentioning “The Flanders” provokes excitement and memories for most visitors and residents of South Jersey.
In Ocean City, the building enjoys immense fame as the town’s most
prominent landmark, but its history tells a broader story directly linked to Cape May, Atlantic City, and the rise of the New Jersey seashore as the quintessential American resort. It is for
these reasons that many have worked to retain the Flanders’ grand style when other hotels fell. From residents to developers, they understand that “as the grandest of Ocean City hotels, the community is fortunate that this architectural marvel has survived to the present. It remains an important part of Ocean City’s past and future.
Thank you to all of the hard working and dedicated guests, residents, and employees that have played a part in preserving the reputation of the Flanders Hotel as “Ocean City’s Most Historic and Prestigious All Suites Boardwalk Hotel and Conference Center.”
Respectfully yours, Peter Voudouris Director of Hotel & Banquet Center Operations and President of The Flanders Condominium Association
SHOPPES AT THE ASBURY
A Legend is Born
Unique, One of a Kind Finds - A Collection of Fine Local Merchants Offering Apparel for Men, Women & Kids • Home Decor • Wood Crafts • Accessories
By the owners of Staintons
Beautifully remodeled at the former Crown Bank 801 Asbury Avenue, Ocean City
July Events & Happenings
Every Monday
Beach Exercise (Yoga) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Free! Bring a towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
Family Nights Entertainment including jugglers, music, characters and more on the boardwalk 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. between 6th Street – 14th Street.
Every Tuesday
Funtastic Tuesdays10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Asbury Ave. Entertainment, Face Painters, Balloon Sculptors.
Mummers Night – Strutting 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on the boardwalk, 6th Street – 14th Street.
Beach Walks–59th St. & Central Ave. (Entrance to Corson’s Park) Tuesdays- 9:00 a.m., Wednesdays- 6:30 p.m.
Every Wednesday
Beach Exercise (Pilates) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Free! Bring a towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
Beach Walks- 59th St. & Central Ave., (Entrance to Corson’s Park) Tuesdays 9:00 a.m., Wednesdays 6:30 p.m.
Family Nights Entertainment including jugglers, music, characters and more on the boardwalk 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. between 6th Street – 14th Street.
Every Thursday
Market Days 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.–Asbury Avenue. Entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors.
Mummers Nights Strutting 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on the boardwalk, 6th Street – 14th Street.
Every Friday
Beach Exercise (Low Impact) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Free! Bring a towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
JULY 1st – Killer Queen The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BRE Presents.
JULY 2nd – GARFIELD, THE MUSICAL WITH CATTITUDE Presented by The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company–Garfield, a chubby and sarcastic tabby cat, fantasizes about having the most amazing birthday in the history of birthdays... he deserves it for being the best cat ever! Unfortunately, all of his friends–Arlene, Odie, Jon, and even his nemesis, Nermal–seem to have forgotten. Feeling rejected, Garfield ventures out to find excitement, but he soon realizes that home is where the heart (and the food) is. The show begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancitytheatrecompany.com
JULY 3rd –Ocean City
Pops FREE Outdoor Concert The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor
concert at 8:00 p.m. July 3 at Carey Stadium, 6th & Boardwalk. Our legendary local orchestra will perform patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field, and there will be seating available in the bleachers.
JULY 3rd –Wacky Wednesday – (Pie Eating Contest) Celebrate America with a good old-fashion apple and cherry pie eating contest. No hands allowed! Contest is free. Open to all ages. Limited to 150 participants. Takes place at the Music Pier and must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate.
JULY 3rd –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
JULY 4th –Bike Parade Sponsored by the Gardens
Civic Association Registration 9:00 a.m. at the Longport Bridge parking lot. Parade begins at 10:00 a.m.
JULY 4th –Bike Parade Sponsored by the South OC Improvement Association, City of Ocean City & the Chamber of Commerce.
Registration 9:00 a.m. at 40th & Asbury Ave. Parade begins at 10:00 a.m.
JULY 4th –Bike Parade Sponsored by the Riviera Neighborhood. Registration at 11:00 a.m. at the Rosemar Lane Park. Parade begins at Noon.
JULY 4th –Fourth of July Celebration Kite flying competition at 7:00 p.m. A spectacular boardwalk fireworks display tops off the evening at 9:00 p.m.
JULY 4th –Ocean City Pops FREE Outdoor Concert The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor
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concert at 8:00 p.m. July 4 at Carey Stadium, 6th & Boardwalk. Our legendary local orchestra will perform patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field, and there will be seating available in the bleachers.
JULY 7th – Ocean City POPS Present Greatest Hits Back by popular demand, Maestro Vince Lee will take you on a whirlwind tour of the wide variety of genres that the OC Pops is famous for, all in one, action-packed evening. You'll hear symphonic folk tales, brassy fanfares, Hollywood hits, Tin Pan Alley tunes, and even Funk and Soul. If you enjoy an evening of variety and surprises, this
concert is for you! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice
JULY 8th – The Wailers The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BRE Presents.
JULY 9th –Bicycle Auction 10:00 a.m. to Noon at Shelter Road (first left off of Tennessee Ave, behind the OC Golf Course) Approximately 115 bicycles to be sold. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. A driver’s license, passport or valid I.D. is required to register. Payment: Bank Checks with ID, Traveler’s Checks & Cash Only. For more information call 609-525-9356 (purchasing office).
JULY 9th –CHAR -
LOTTE’S WEB (Musical)
Presented by The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company–Charlotte's Web is based on E.B. White's loving story of the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a little gray spider named Charlotte. Wilbur has a problem: how to avoid winding up as pork chops! Charlotte, a fine writer and true friend, hits on a plan to fool Farmer Zuckerman. She will create a "miracle."
Spinning the words "Some Pig" in her web, Charlotte weaves a solution which not only makes Wilbur a prize pig but also ensures his place on the farm forever. This treasured tale, featuring madcap and endearing farm animals, explores bravery, selfless love and the true meaning of friendship. The show begins at 10:30 a.m. at
the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancitytheatrecompany.com
JULY 10th –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
JULY 10th –Wacky Wednesday- (Taffy Sculpting) Use your creativity to shape and sculpt Shriver’s salt water taffy into your very own unique masterpiece. Contest is free but open to the first 200 participants. Takes place at the Music Pier and must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate.
JULY 10th –Freckle Contest Registration is free and begins at 5:30pm in front of the Music Pier. Contest starts at 6:00 p.m.
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Timeline - continued from 6
JULY 10th – Ocean City POPS Present Big Broadway Bash Join Maestro Vince Lee and the Ocean City Pops in a celebration of one of America's most enduring musical genres. Come see some of the best and brightest talent perform music ranging from Rodgers and Hammerstein classics, to sophisticated songs by Sondheim, and even upbeat tunes from modern Broadway. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice
JULY 11th –Sand Sculpting Contest Open to kids, teens, adults and families! Registration is free and begins at 9:00 a.m. at the 6th St. Beach. Judging takes place by 11:00 a.m.
JULY 13th – Joe Conklin and the City Rhythm Orchestra 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Philadelphia comedian Joe Conklin joins forces with the City Rhythm Orchestra for a night of comedy and music. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice
JULY 14th – Frankie Moreno Performing The Music of Elvis With The Ocean City POPS With 17 Top-Ten albums, 117 Top-Ten singles, an Emmy nomination, and being named Las Vegas “Headliner of the Year” 5 times,Frankie Moreno is consistently breaking records and wowing audiences from coast to coast with his own brand of genre-blurring Rock n’ Roll. First introduced to American audiences at the age of 10 on CBS’s Star Search, Moreno continues to perform sold-out concerts
including Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, The Hollywood Bowl, and Vegas residencies. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice
JULY 15th – The Moody Blues’ John Lodge: Performs Days of Future Passed The concerts begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BRE Presents.
JULY 16th – DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL! Presented by The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company–Based on the awardwinning children’s book, audiences can now hop on board for an unforgettable ride. With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the #1 New York Times best-selling, Caldecott Honor award-winning "Pigeon" picture books, and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma. It's not easy being the Pigeon-you never get to do ANYTHING! But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird CAN do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone's wings flapping. The show begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancitytheatrecompany. com
JULY 17th –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
JULY 17th –Wacky Wednesday – (French Fry
Sculpting) Use your creativity to shape and sculpt french fries into your very own unique masterpiece. Contest is free but only open to the first 200 participants. Takes place at the Music Pier and must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate.
JULY 18th –Jersey Tenors The newest Opera/Rock Mash-up sensation, creating an explosive blend of iconic Opera classics alongside Rock ‘N Roll greats like Queen, Elton John and Bon Jovi. They also feature some of Jersey’s finest like Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen, Kool and The Gang and even Jersey Girl Whitney Houston! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice
JULY 20th – 2nd Annual Night in Venice 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk Join the Ocean City Track & Field and Cross Country Boosters for an invigorating start to your Night In Venice festivities. Registration/Packet Pick-Up will occur behind the Intermedi-
ate School on the basketball courts and the course will start and finish for all events at 19th St. & Haven Ave. The 5K will begin at 8:00 a.m. with the 1 mile walk beginning right after. More details about the event can be found here: www.runsignup.com/ Race/NJ/OceanCity/NightinVenice5k
JULY 20th –Night in Venice The theme for the 2024 event will be: “Summertime Vibes: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett.” Ocean City’s 69th annual Night in Venice at 6:30 p.m. this year will honor Buffett and provide a chance to celebrate the music and carefree persona of the songwriter, who passed away in September after more than five decades of writing, recording and performing timeless classics. ESPN reporter and host Marty Smith will be grand marshal of the 2024 Night in Venice boat parade. For nearly 20 years at ESPN, Smith has produced in-depth interviews, vulnerable storytelling, game broadcasting and breaking news across
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every ESPN platform, and in almost every major sport, including college football and basketball, the NFL, NBA, NASCAR and IndyCar, Formula 1, the horse racing Triple Crown, including the Kentucky Derby, the Masters Tournament and the PGA Tour. ACME Markets returns as a presenting sponsor, and OCNJ Watersports will return this year For more information on participating in the event or attending, visit www.ocnj.us/niv or call 609399-6111. The City’s annual boat parade is one of the largest in the world. Starts at the Longport Bridge to Tennessee Ave. along the bay. Fireworks display to follow the parade.
JULY 21st – Ocean City POPS Under the Boardwalk:
Songs of Summer Enjoy the perfect blend of summer songs with the Ocean City Pops Orchestra featuring Scott Coulter & Friends. This night will take you through memory lane with the best summer songs throughout the years. Songs ranging from the Beach Boys to Jimmy Buffett. Remember to bring you beach towel and sunscreen! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice
JULY 23rd – SNOW
WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Presented by The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company–Seven dwarves, a beautiful girl, a jealous queen, a magic mirror, and a poisoned apple create a diabolical combination in
this musical adaptation of the classic Grimm fairy tale. The show begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancitytheatrecompany.com
JULY 24th –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
JULY 24th –Wacky Wednesday – (Christmas in July) Celebrate the Christmas holiday season in July with a special craft and a visit from Santa while he is in town on vacation. Visit with Santa from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and enjoy the sounds of the season with Christmas Music Bingo at 11:00 a.m. Takes place at the Music Pier and must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate.
JULY 25th –Ocean City Fishing Pier Open House – 6:00pm – 8:00pm. The Ocean City Fishing Club is inviting shutterbugs and other visitors to tour its pier and clubhouse at 14th St. & Boardwalk. Visitors will also be able to make an optional monetary donation or canned goods donation to support the Ocean City Food Cupboard. This is one of two days a year when the Pier is open to non-members, weather permitting.
JULY 28th – Brandon Tomasello's Great American Big Band with the Ocean City POPS Back by popular demand from his stellar 2023 celebration of the Frank Sinatra legacy, performer Brandon Tomasello will bring the Great American Songbook to life on the Music Pier stage!
With a stunning, personal music library that features the original arrangements of Nelson Riddle, Billy May, and Sy Oliver (just to name a few), Mr. Tomasello brings an unmatched authenticity to his performances. Under the direction of Maestro Vince Lee, the Ocean City Pops will perform both as a big band and as an orchestra, making for an unforgettable evening of music! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice
JULY 29th – 10cc The Ultimate Greatest Hits Tour 2024 The concerts begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BRE Presents.
JULY 30th – THE
PERFECT DOG Presented by The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company–Inspired by the The New York Times best-selling author John O’Hurley’s book The Perfect Dog, Sam, a twelve-year-old perfectionist, searches for a flawless dog to enter in the town’s dog contest. Unable to find a canine that measures up, Sam must resort to training the family dog, Max, who is less than eager to obey commands. In the end, Sam and Max learn that there is no such thing as perfect, but there is such a thing as being perfect for each other. The show begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancitytheatrecompany.com
JULY 31st –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
JULY 31st –Wacky Wednesday – (Soft Pretzel Sculpting) Use your creativity to shape and sculpt a soft pretzel into your very own unique masterpiece Contest is free. Limited to 150 participants. Takes place at the Music Pier and must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate.
JULY 31st –Twins Contest Prizes for those who look the most and least alike. Open to all ages. Registration is free and begins at 5:30 p.m. Contest begins at 6:00 p.m. in front of the Music Pier.
JULY 31st – Oak Ridge Boys Theirs is one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry. The four-part har-
monies and upbeat songs of The Oak Ridge Boys have spawned dozens of Country hits and two Pop smashes, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry and fan accolades. Every time they step before an audience, the Oaks bring four decades of charted singles, and 50 years of tradition, to a stage show widely acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere. The group has scored 12 gold, three platinum, and one double platinum album—plus one double platinum single— and had more than a dozen national Number One singles and over 30 Top Ten hits. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice
Scuttle over to the Ocean City Free Public Library for the resources and events to keep you and your family entertained, informed, and inspired all summer long!
HOURS IN-PERSON Mon.-Fri. 9am-9pm Sat. 9am-5pm • Sun. 11am-5pm CURBSIDE PICKUP Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-4pm • Sun. 11am-4pm
The History of The Flanders
After World War I, Ocean City officials actively promoted the idea that a subsidized hotel would significantly develop the city’s potential. In the winter months of 1922, the Chamber of Commerce lobbied the Ocean City government and other groups for support. They explained how the completion of the Delaware River Bridge in Philadelphia would bring many more visitors to the Jersey Shore. Being that Ocean City’s need for newer accommodations was well known, it was an absolute necessity to build a Grand Ocean Front Hotel to realize financial gains from this valuable beachfront property.
As a result, the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce appointed a committee to thoroughly investigate the feasibility and demand for such a project. This committee became the Ocean Front Hotel Corporation (OFHC), a group of twenty-four local businessmen and prominent citizens. With this vision in mind, this group concluded that Ocean City could not hold her own against the competition of her resort rivals without this hotel. As a whole, the broader community hoped that a new hotel could revive the resort just as the Blenheim Hotel pointed Atlantic City in a positive new direction. For that reason, Ocean City residents assumed a large part of the financial responsibility, purchasing stock from the Ocean Front Hotel Corporation.
Upon the suggestion of the OFHC, the organization
chose to name the hotel “THE FLANDERS” in memory of the fallen Allied troops of World War I’s dreadful “Battle of Flanders”, fought in Belgium in 1914. To design this $1.5 million monument, the largest construction project in Ocean City to that point, the Corporation hired local architect Vivian B. Smith. Born in Ocean City in 1886, Smith left for an apprenticeship in Philadelphia after graduation from Ocean City High School, and returned in 1904 and began working for an Atlantic City architect. Smith’s professional contributions to Ocean City include the designs of City Hall in 1915, a new High School in 1924, and the Music Pier in 1929.
The Flanders Hotel, constructed of tile roofing, steel girders and concrete, was billed as “fireproof”, a major consideration of that time in history. The use of these materials made the Flanders a uniquely sturdy structure and is largely responsible for its survival from the great fire of 1927 and other natural disasters that ravaged the shoreline for years to come. The gentleman overseeing the hotel’s construction was J. Howard Slocum who also oversaw the operation of the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia. He added professional credibility to the project as a renowned hotelman, who also assumed management of the hotel once completed. The hotel was built to transform Ocean City into a world-class venue. Whether it succeeded to reach that goal or not, it did make
Ocean City a serious South Jersey destination. The 232 room hotel, with many sun decks, a swimming pool, and bath in each room, was constructed to compete with tried and true hotels along the coast.
The Flanders was not complete on its opening day in 1923, but the ceremonies continued nonetheless. The rainy-day festivities on July 23rd ushered in a bright new era in the resort’s history. The event was held in the Flanders’ elegant ballrooms, which were adorned with images of poppies to symbolize the Battle Fields of Flanders. Guests enjoyed an evening full of speeches, fine dining and dancing. The “JEWEL of THE SOUTHERN JERSEY SHORE” was born.
The Flanders became the new face of Ocean City. Approaching the island, the Flanders white washed structure towered above the landscape. Most of the buildings at that time were approximately four stories tall and overwhelmingly Victorian in nature. The Flanders was so prominent that it
became a visual landmark, evidenced by the fact that almost any postcard or official photograph of Ocean City prominently featured the hotel.
In order to compete with traditional hotels and truly become a renowned resort, Slocum introduced higher standards of service to Ocean City. The Flanders attempted to become a “palace-like emporium” by hiring bellhops, doormen and front desk clerks to service each and every guest. This “Flanders model” proved so successful that entrepreneurs planned and constructed other hotels to meet the demand. Two other high rise hotels were constructed along the boardwalk between 1923 and 1930; the Delaware Hotel in 1925 and the Hotel Hanscom in 1929. Neither of these hotels proved to become a serious threat to the Flanders business.
The Flanders billing as “fireproof” became overwhelmingly evident after the devastating fire of 1927. The
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blaze leveled every structure along the boardwalk except the hotel. Officials estimated that nearly 500 guest rooms were destroyed by the fire. The city officials felt that they needed to have a modern hotel built to accommodate the summer crowds. The result was a proposal for a fourteen story, 300-room structure to be named the Mayflower Hotel. This hotel would have relegated the Flanders to become the resort’s white elephant. Of course when the Flanders was built its intent was to be a catalyst for bigger, better, and different types of structures. In the end, the great depression was the catalyst that caused the proposal for the Mayflower to be abandoned. Had the timing been
different, Ocean City would have grown into a drastically different place, and like various hotels in Atlantic City, the Flanders would have likely been demolished as a victim of its own success.
To ensure its success and continue to move the Flanders forward, Slocum took advantage of new opportunities to upgrade existing amenities and cement itself as the “QUEEN of OCEAN CITY’S HOTELS”. The most notable addition occurred after 1927. The city quickly recovered from the fire and rebuilt the boardwalk, a half a block closer to the ocean. As the only remaining structure, this decision now effectively moved the hotel away from the beach. To keep from losing its beachfront status, Slocum and OFHC decided
to build an extension of the main boardwalk that would connect with the hotel. By 1928, the Flanders enjoyed local stardom, but Slocum still sought national attention as a valuable tool to put itself above the competition. With the opportunities offered by the 1927 fire, Slocum utilized the one
acre boardwalk extension to transform the Flanders into a more dominant recreation attraction. In July of 1929, Slocum opened three new salt water pools in this space; Olympic-sized main pool, children’s pool, and diving pool. The Flanders kept its
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original pool, a 20’ by 55’ outdoor pool in its courtyard, to be used exclusively by their guests. The salt water pools were open to the public and soon became the most popular attraction in Ocean City. During summer days these pools would be filled with swimmers while boardwalk strollers would stop to watch the fun. At night, the Flanders maintained its tradition of holding local and regional swim meets which were previously held in the courtyard pool. Slocum then added spectacular water shows featuring Olympic athletes like Johnny Weismuller and the renowned Ocean City Beach Patrol. The events at this pool complex became so popular that the Flanders’ management lined the main
pool with bleachers to accommodate the thousands of spectators.
The Flanders’ three front pools were instrumental in showcasing the hotel as a major attraction. But its reputation for service and style, which was truly based on its elegance and sophistication, continued to entice families to vacation at the hotel. Its high-styled rooms, architectural detailing, dining facilities, and shops made it the hotel of choice for those looking to experience the best of the Jersey Shore. This reputation for style aided Slocum’s drive to reach a more national audience. In 1929, the Flanders’ hosted the National Marbles Tournament, a local and state event sponsored by community newspapers. The
media sparked tremendous interest in the hotel by advertising the grand prize as a trip to Ocean City and a stay at the immaculate Flanders Hotel.
The stock market crash in October of 1929 and the depression era that followed, were devastating to the Flanders. The population in Ocean City declined and demand for premier accommodations decreased dramatically. After a few years of financial struggles, the Ocean Front Hotel Corporation was forced to sell the Flanders to Elwood Kirkman, a multimillionaire banker and prominent lawyer from Atlantic City. Most of the original investors were paid dimes to the dollar.
The 1930’s were difficult times for the hotel and the
Fine Italian Cuisine
city. Under Kirkman’s management, even in these hard times, the Flanders maintained a large staff. Kirkman maintained the hotel with an atmosphere of hospitality and solidified The Flanders as Ocean City’s focal point. Over the years guests included such luminaries as Vice-President Charles Curtis, the three Lit Brothers of Department Store fame, cartoonist Al Capp, actor Jimmy Stewart, and of course, Grace Kelly.
After the Depression, Ocean City’s development remained relatively stagnant and its hope of being a national resort like Atlantic City faded quickly and the city grew content being a regional destination. Recov-
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ery really didn’t begin until a few years after World War II. The city began moving in this direction, with the Fountview motel opening in 1955 which was followed by no fewer than eight other motels. From this time through the 1950’s, amidst this new wave of motels, the Flanders’s existed as the resort’s prominent hotel. For an average of $17, guests could enjoy what was still promised to be Ocean City’s largest and most complete resort.
In the 1950’s Mr. Kirkman continued to keep the face of the Flanders in front of the public eye. The three public pools were staffed by more than 30 trained instructors and life guards daily. More than 1,500 children and adults would learn to swim each and every summer. In 1950 the Miss New Jersey Pageant was held poolside. In 1954 the Flanders Hotel was home to the Diamond Jubilee Water Show. And in 1960 Mr. Kirkman built a two story Penthouse for his family on the North Tower of the hotel. These were elegant and spacious accommodations, spread over two floors, that consisted of five bedrooms and 5 baths.
The Flanders’ most direct competition opened on May 22, 1966. The Port-O-Call Hotel and Motor Inn opened on the boardwalk at 15th Street. It sparked excitement for the city just like the Flanders did in 1923. It was not the Port-O-Call’s size but style that proved to be the factor in demoting the Flanders to second position. Like its predecessor, the Port-O-Call ushered in a new wave of modern design and
became the new model to compete with rising resorts like Wildwood. In a very short period of time the Port-OCall replaced the Flanders as the face of Ocean City. A period of “bigger is better” descended upon the resort and from 1970 – 1978, most of the resort’s iconic hotels, the Delaware, Breakers, Lincoln, Illinois, Strand, and the Colonial came crashing or burning down; often replaced by newer or larger motels and condominiums. These developments left the Flanders as the oldest remaining hotel of Ocean City.
The Flanders struggled during and after this new wave period. Due to increasing maintenance costs, the Flanders’ large pools closed for good on Labor Day 1978. The hotel struggled under its current setup and never recovered. The one acre pool lot sat vacant, basically a empty sand pit into the 1990’s. In the early 1990’s a developer installed a small amusement park in that space. In 1995 the Simpson Family bought parts of the Flanders property and expanded Playland from a one to three acre facility.
The year 1991 proved to be the Flanders’ worst financial year in its history. In February of 1993 a sheriff sale was held to raise funds to pay some of the bills that were out of control. In October of that year Elwood Kirkman passed away at the age of 89. Kirkman’s daughter, Carol K. Parks took over ownership of the Flanders. Ms. Parks took over a hotel that was drowning financially. In July of 1994, with no solu-
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tion in site, she put the Flanders and 5 other properties up for sale for 13 million dollars. With no immediate buyer and no funds to operate, the hotel was forced to close its doors for good on May 8th, 1995.
Later in 1995 The Franklin Building Corporation (FBC) started discussions with the City to turn the Flanders into a year-round retirement complex. The Mayor, Mr. Henry Knight, and officials were not in favor of this plan and fought to make sure this would not be the fate of the Flanders. Mayor Knight and Ocean City Officials were eventually sued by FBC, stating that their actions violated the “Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988”.
In January 31st, 1996 Mr. James Dwyer purchased the Flanders Hotel. Understanding the history of the renowned hotel, Mr. Dwyer spent a couple of years and more than 12 million dollars renovating the building’s 232 rooms into ninety-five condominium. On Labor Day weekend in 1997 the Flanders re-opened with the Drifters and Coasters as the entertainment acts. In 2000 construction was started on the five new penthouses to be built on the top of the South Tower of the building.
The early 2000’s were very difficult times for the Flanders. Starting in 2001, the 20,000 square foot banquet center, the partially built penthouses and the large parking lot across the street all went into foreclosure. The Dwyer Organization was removed from the management of the hotel. Dwyer’s legal problems began to sur-
face and various banks took control of numerous assets of the hotel: the front desk, management offices, boilers/ mechanical rooms, pool access, freight elevator, telephone room, etc. The elegant banquet facilities officially closed in September of 2002. All furnishings and equipment were sold at Auction (tables, chairs, decorations, Persian rugs, oriental rugs, carved wood thrones, grand piano, and other expensive items). A group of owners called “The Friends of the Flanders” and local residents came together and tried to buy some of the furnishings back. In 2003 the adjacent small parking lot went into foreclosure and the larger parking lot across the street was sold for 6.2 million dollars. There were also three suspicious fires at the hotel with the last two ruled intentional. As a result of all these occurrences, the Flanders was engulfed in numerous law suits and legal battles. Beginning in 2003, the individual owners of the Flanders began to start the process of survival of the Flanders both financially and as a vacation destination. At this time the Flanders was not permitted to operate the hotel from the front desk. The owners set up a card table and chairs in the lobby to handle all the reservations. The owners were assessed heavily to keep the hotel a float. Two board members, Phil Schwehm and David Kleeman, were instrumental in brokering a deal with Republic First Bank, to purchase the front desk for $750,000.
In 2003, Ocean City Partners (OCP), a group of local businessman, became
an important part of the reemergence of the Flanders Hotel. OCP became a partner of the Condominium Association by purchasing the 2nd floor banquet center and the adjacent parking lot. The 2nd floor facility, that was dark since 2001, was once again an important part of the Flanders. By investing money and running the banquet facility in a professional and organized manner; brides, organizations and groups began to come back to this historic hotel.
From 2003 through 2005 the Flanders continued to struggle but the owners and various board members did all that was possible to keep the Flanders Hotel operational. On February 24th, 2005 an Amended and Restated Master Deed
was completed. The hotel would now operate as “The Flanders Condominium Association”. Even under these new guidelines The Flanders continued to struggle mightily both financially and operationally. At the end of 2005 the association found itself in the following condition: financially strapped after showing a loss of approximately 500,000 dollars, buried in legal expenses of over 300,000 dollars, hundreds of fire code violations, a collapsing pool deck, (braced up with hundreds of support jacks), and the hotel was under pressure from The Department of Affairs to close the hotel as the exterior of the hotel was deteriorating rapidly.
At this time financing was crucial to the survival of
the Flanders. Newly elected President of the Board, Peter Voudouris, who was elected to the board in a special court ordered election, started the search for financing.
After meeting with the executives and board members of Sun National Bank for many months, Mr. Voudouris was able to secure a 2 million dollar construction loan. Once obtained, the renovations to the exterior of the building and pool deck began.
In the period of 2005 through 2007 additional first class accommodations were added to the Flanders. Ocean City Partners converted a section of the banquet facility, known as the Atlantic Rooms, into seven spacious and upscale condominiums. The five elegant Penthouses located on the top floors of
the building were finally completed. These developments brought luxurious two and three bedroom accommodations to the Flanders.
In 2008 the Board of Trustees hired Public Historian, Alex Bethke, to start the process in order for the Flanders to become listed as historically registered. After almost two years in the making, at a presentation in Trenton, NJ on November 20th, 2009, the Flanders by a unanimous vote was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Later that year, the interior stores on the second level of the lobby and the barber shop by the parking lot entrance, which were dark for many years, were purchased
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by Peter & Arlene Voudouris.
The shops are now filled with clothing, gifts and antiques. The barber shop is now home to “Coffee Express”.
The boardwalk stores which were non-operational, an eye sore for many years were purchased by the Walter Development Group. After trying unsuccessful to operate a commercial food concession facility, they received approval from the city to change the zoning to residential. In 2010, 9 one, two, and three bedroom condominiums known as the Lanai Suites were built and became part of the Flanders Condominium Association.
In January of 2010, after approximately a year of negotiations, the owners of the Flanders Condominium Association purchased the Banquet Center Facilities, the adjacent parking lot, and all the holdings of Ocean City Partners (OCP) for 3.1 million dollars. This feat was accomplished by some creative financing. Mr. Voudouris was able to secure a second loan from Sun National Bank and a short term loan from OCP, with the balance paid by the individual owners of The Flanders by way of a onetime assessment.
Presently the Flanders is a thriving destination for guests
all year round. The accommodations range from Luxury Suites to Spectacular Penthouses. The Flanders is the only full service hotel in Ocean City that includes: elegant ballrooms & meeting rooms, full service restaurant, Shoppes at the Flanders, Coffee Shop, Salon & Spa, Fitness Center, Business Center and heated outdoor pool.
The Flanders has withstood much adversity and hardship through the years. Nonetheless, it has remained Ocean City’s premier accommodation, a landmark known throughout the region, state, and even the nation for 90 years. Throughout it’s history many have worked to retain the Flanders’ grand style when other hotels were falling by the wayside. The community is fortunate that this architectural marvel has survived as one of Ocean City’s historical treasures. As an important part of Ocean City’s past, the reassurance of the Flanders Hotel is just as important to the future of Ocean City, known throughout as America’s #1 Family Resort.
Written by Peter Voudouris, President – Flanders Condominium Association and Alex Bethke, Public Historian
The Flanders Catacombs
By Peter Voudouris
During the planning phase of the Flanders Hotel construction in 1923, it was decided to include a full basement below sea level, which became known as the “Catacombs of the Flanders.” This basement area comprises a labyrinth of eight expansive rooms. To prevent water intrusion, the builder installed a multi-pumping station system throughout the Catacombs. This system has undergone numerous upgrades and remains in operation after 100 years.
In the 1920s and 1930s, organized crime significantly influenced business operations across the country, and the East Coast was no exception. Ocean City, one
of the few thriving areas in South Jersey during this period, served as a neutral
meeting location for organized crime bosses from New York, Philadelphia, and
Atlantic City. The private Catacombs of the Flanders provided an ideal venue for these clandestine gatherings.
The 18th Amendment, passed in 1919, prohibited the sale, manufacture, and transportation of alcohol, resulting in substantial financial gains for organized crime families. Illegal bars proliferated across the country, and the Flanders was no exception, with speakeasies set up in the Catacombs.
In 1929, the opening of the saltwater pools transformed the Catacombs into a crucial area of the hotel. During the 1920s and 1930s, guests were expected to be well-dressed and were not
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allowed to enter the lobbies in bathing suits. Guests accessed the Catacombs through a back stairwell, either climbing the steps to the saltwater pools or using the tunnel that ran under the boardwalk to reach the beach. Upon returning to the hotel, bathers and beachgoers would enter the Catacombs to use the changing rooms and showers.
Mid-century, the Catacombs were equipped with two prominent bar areas and rooms designated for card playing and other recreational activities. These areas were specifically labeled the Island, Captain’s, and Inlet Rooms. Private parties, serving food and liquor, took place in these rooms.
From the late 1970s
through 1995, the Catacombs were used exclusively by the maintenance department to support hotel operations.
Over the years, major storms have caused extensive damage and flooding to the Catacombs. The storm of 1962 inundated the Catacombs with water heights reaching 52 inches. However, Storm Sandy was the most devastating, with water heights reaching 55.5 inches. These water levels are marked and labeled on one of the columns.
Today, the Catacombs are used solely for storage. However, there remains the possibility that one day they could be restored, allowing guests to tour this basement area and relive the history of the “Flanders Catacombs.”
Trains, Steamboats brought first visitors
By Fred Miller
Ocean City was founded in 1879 by the Honorable Simon Lake, Rev. S. Wesley Lake, Rev. Ezra B/ Lake, Rev. James E. Lake, Rev. William H. Burrell, and Rev. William B. Wood. The decisions they made in 1879 and 1880 laid the foundation for America’s greatest family resort.
The founders knew that for the town to grow and prosper it had to be accessible to people from New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
During the first year, they organized the Pleasantville and Ocean City Rail Road Company. A railroad was laid from Pleasantville to Somers Point and on Oct. 26, 1880, trains began to make daily trips to Somers Point. Passengers would exit the train and board a steamboat for the short trip across the bay to Ocean City.
Nov. 24, 1884, was a special day in Ocean City. It was on that day that the West Jersey Railroad began
operating trains from Sea Isle City into Ocean City. The railroad crossed Corson’s Inlet entering the southern end of Ocean City, continuing north to Eighth Street station.
By the summer of 1885, there were three train routes to Ocean City: Philadelphia to Atlantic City, to Longport, steamboat to Ocean City; Philadelphia to Somers Point, steamboat to Ocean City; and the all-rail route, Philadelphia to Ocean City, through Sea Isle City.
William B. Wood, president of the Ocean City Association, wrote the following in 1885: “It must be plain to all that we have passed the crises in the history of Ocean City. Our existence, development, rapid advancement, is no longer a problem—it is an assured fact. We have astonished even the railroad men as well as others, the snort of the iron horse and the shrill whistle of the locomotive will hereafter be familiar to our people.”
August Events & Happenings
Every Tuesday
Funtastic Tuesdays- 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Asbury Ave. Entertainment, Face Painters, Balloon Sculptors.
Mummers Night – Strutting 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on the boardwalk, 6th Street – 14th Street
Beach Walks–59th St. & Central Ave. (Entrance to Corson’s Park) Tuesdays9:00 a.m., Wednesdays- 6:30 p.m.
Every Wednesday Beach Exercise (Pilates) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Free! Bring a towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
Beach Walks- 59th St. & Central Ave., (Entrance to Corson’s Park) Tuesdays 9:00 a.m., Wednesdays 6:30 p.m.
Family Nights Entertainment including jugglers, music, characters and more on the boardwalk 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. between 6th Street – 14th Street.
Every Thursday Market Days 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.–Asbury Avenue. Entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors.
Mummers Nights Strutting 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on the boardwalk, 6th Street – 14th Street.
Every Friday Beach Exercise (Low Impact) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Free! Bring a
towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
AUGUST 1st –Sand Sculpting Contest Open to kids, teens, adults and families! Registration is free and begins at 9:00 a.m. at the 6th St. Beach. Judging takes place by 11:00 a.m.
AUGUST 1st, 2nd & 3rd –The 23rd Annual Art of Surfing at the Ocean City Music Pier. It is a free family event featuring original art from surfing’s biggest names, live music, and a chance to meet artists from across the country.
AUGUST 2nd, 3rd & 4th – 61st Annual Boardwalk Art Show Leading artists from throughout the East Coast exhibit and sell their work. Friday & Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
AUGUST 4th – Ocean City POPS Present A Musi-
cal Night of Stage & Screen with Sara Maimone Lights, Camera, Broadway! Back by popular demand–since selling out her 2023 Holiday Show with Maestro Vince Lee and the OC Pops–Ocean City’s Sara Maimone invites you to enjoy a night of popular film compositions and Tony Award winning Broadway arrangements. Spotlighting some of the greatest composers and lyricists through Sara’s voice, this is a night of music that you will not want to miss! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation. com/boxoffice
AUGUST 5th & 6th –The Beach Boys Two nights... four incredible shows! The concerts begins at 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BRE Presents.
AUGUST 6th –Pamper Scamper Annual baby crawl-
ing race. Registration is free and begins at 8:30 a.m. Contest begins at 9:00 a.m. at the 6th St. Beach. For babies up to 15 months.
AUGUST 6th – 15th–GREASE Presented By The OC POPS and OC Theatre Co. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: ducktailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gumsnapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. Head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive the high romance of their “Summer Nights” as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such songs as “Greased Lightnin’,” “It’s Raining on Prom Night,” “Alone at the Drive-In Movie” recalling the music of Buddy
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Holly, Little Richard, and Elvis Presley that became the soundtrack of a generation. Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. “Grease” is presented by special agreement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatricals Company. Shows take place at the Ocean City High School Bill and Nancy Hughes Performing Arts Center. Show times 7:30 p.m. on August 6, 7, 9, 13, 14 and 15; 2:00 p.m. on August 8 and 15. Tickets available at www.OceanCityVacation/com/Boxoffice.
AUGUST 7th –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
AUGUST 7th –Wacky Wednesday (Prince and Prin-
cess Party) Use your creativity to design your own Prince or Princess crown with Miss Ocean City, Junior Miss Ocean City and Little Miss Ocean City! Contest is free. Takes place at the Music Pier and must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate.
AUGUST 8th –114th Annual Baby Parade One of the oldest baby parades in the country. On the Boardwalk, 10:30 a.m. Registration begins June 2024. For more information, visit ocnj.us/ babyparade
AUGUST 8th –Ocean City Fishing Pier Open House – 6:00pm – 8:00pm. The Ocean City Fishing Club is inviting shutterbugs and other visitors to tour its pier and clubhouse at 14th St. & Boardwalk. Visitors will also be able to make an op -
tional monetary donation or canned goods donation to support the Ocean City Food Cupboard. This is one of two days a year when the Pier is open to non-members, weather permitting.
AUGUST 10th – Boys and Girls Fishing Tournament Free entry for all ages 8-16. All participants receive a prize. North-End beach by the Longport Bridge. Sign-ups begin at 9:00 a.m. and parent signature needed that day. Sponsored by Ocean City Fishing Club and City of Ocean City.
AUGUST 10th –Miss Ocean City Pageant 7:00 p.m. at the Music Pier. Miss Ocean City 2024 Lola DeMarco will be on hand as contestants compete in interview, talent, swimsuit, evening gown and onstage question.
AUGUST 11th – Bill Scheible Returns with the Ocean City POPS Ocean City Pops conductor emeritus, Bill Scheible, returns to the Music Pier! A fixture of the Ocean City music scene, Maestro Scheible leads his long-time colleagues in a collection of standards and favorites. Featuring the award winning soprano Kara Goodrich and guitarist Carlos Bedoya in thrilling selections! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice
AUGUST 12th – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone The concerts begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BRE Presents.
WAVERUNNER RENTALS
AUGUST 14th –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
AUGUST 14th –Miss Crustacean Hermit Crab Beauty Pageant the original beauty contest for crustaceans. Families, Kids, Businesses and Organizations are invited to enter their crustacean in this annual contest. The winner receives the Coveted Cucumber Rind Cup and gets to walk down a flowery runway. Registration is free and starts at 5:30 p.m. at the 6th St. Beach. Contest begins at 6:00 p.m. Open to all ages.
AUGUST 14th –Hermit Crab Races Watch as some of the fastest crabs in the
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universe compete in this world famous race immediately following Miss Crustacean at the 6th St. Beach. Registration is free and starts at 5:30 p.m.
AUGUST 16th –Little Miss Ocean City 7:00 p.m. at the Music Pier. Scholarship pageant for girls ages 8 – 11. Little Miss Ocean City 2024 Stella Flemming will be on hand to crown her successor. For registration information call 609-525-9304.
AUGUST 16th –Ocean City Green Fair 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Music Pier. The communitywide event is designed to educate and encourage people of all ages to adopt a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Sponsored by the Environmental Commission.
AUGUST 17th –Junior Miss Ocean City 7:00 p.m. at the Music Pier. Scholarship pageant for girls ages 12–16. Junior Miss Ocean City 2024 Sarah Avellino will
be on hand to crown her successor.
AUGUST 18th – Star Wars & Beyond: The Musical Legacy of John Williams With a career spanning eight remarkable decades, the movie music of John Williams has touched the lives of millions around the world. Having worked with Mr. Williams, Maestro Vince Lee has become one of the premiere interpreters of his music, and is thrilled to continue this annual celebration of his music. Expect to hear big hits (Star Wars, Jaws), epic soundscapes (War Horse, Far & Away), along with first-ever performance in the state of New Jersey of music from Star Wars IX: The Rise of Skywalker! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice
AUGUST 19th – The MACHINE Performs Pink Floyd The concerts begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Ocean City
Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BRE Presents.
AUGUST 21st –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
AUGUST 21st – Eli Young Band “10 Years: 10,000 Towns Tour” College classmates formed the band 20 years ago, and the Associated Press has celebrated the group as “a smart, relevant antidote” to clichés in country music. The band has amassed 14 Billboard charting singles, including four No. 1 hits, including “Crazy Girl,” “Even If It Breaks Your Heart,” “Love Ain’t” and “Drunk Last Night.” The band won an Academy of Country Music award for Song of the Year and received nominations for multiple Grammy, CMA, CMT, ACA and Teen Choice awards. While selling out venues from coast-tocoast as strong headliners,
the Eli Young Band has also shared the stage with Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean, Toby Keith, Chris Young, Darius Rucker and Dave Matthews Band. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice
AUGUST 25th – The Music of Modern Broadway and Hollywood with Loren Allred Loren Allred, the renowned singer-songwriter, soared to fame with her captivating rendition of “Never Enough” from “The Greatest Showman,” achieving multiplatinum status and garnering widespread acclaim. Despite initially being relatively unknown, her Golden Buzzer performance on Britain’s Got Talent in 2022 propelled her into the limelight. Collaborating with icons such as Michael Bublé and embarking on global tours alongside Andrea Bocelli and David Foster, Loren’s vocal prowess knows no bounds. Notably, she is featured in Disney’s “World of Color – One” at Disneyland and contributed her voice to the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth theme song “No Promises to Keep.” In 2023, Loren released her EP “I Hear Your Voice” and is currently working on new music slated for release this summer.The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice
AUGUST 26th – Graham Nash: More Evenings of Songs & Stories The concerts begins 7:00 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.
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A postcard from 1936.
Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BRE Presents.
AUGUST 28th –Farmers Market–Tabernacle Grounds
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
AUGUST 28th –Beethoven’s 9th Symphony and 200th Birthday of “Ode to Joy” In 2022, Maestro Vince Lee and the Ocean City Pops made history by doing the first-ever performance in Ocean City of one of the greatest masterpieces of all time: Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. This year, almost every orchestra in the world will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of this masterwork, and the Ocean City Pops is excited to be a part of those celebrations. One of the fixtures of the Ocean City Arts scene, Richard
Stanislaw, will return as Chorusmaster, and the Music Pier stage will erupt with an expanded orchestra, a full choir, and some of the best music ever composed. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind musical event! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice
AUGUST 31st –The Strictly 60s Band Dedicated to giving its listeners the best songs and sounds of the 1960s, the music will take the audience on a musical journey of a blast from the past. Spectacular playlist including British invasion, Motown, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Doo Wop. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice
The Sindia: Ocean City’s Famous Shipwreck
By Steffen Klenk
Ocean City has a rich and unique history. Take a walk downtown or down a residential street, and you may notice something remarkable. But there’s one piece of history that has been buried in the sands forever.
Lying underneath the 16th street beach are the remnants of a four-masted ship known as the Sindia. 329 feet in length, it was built in Belfast, Ireland in 1887, and purchased by an oil company owned by John D. Rockefeller. Prior to its grounding, the Sindia made its final voyage to Shanghai where it unloaded oil, wax, and kerosene.
On December 15, 1901, a raging nor’easter brought blinding rain and wind off our coast, causing the Sindia to run aground 300 yards off of the 16th street beach. Members of the Lifesaving Service made the discovery around 2:30am, and called in their
men to tend the rescue operations. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured, and all thirty three crew members were safely brought to shore.
She was finishing the final leg of a journey from Kobe, Japan to New York City, carrying exported silk, oil screens, and porcelain. Legend has it that the ship was also carrying items looted out of Buddhist temples during Shanghai’s Boxer Rebellion.
Various attempts were made to salvage the ship and return it to the ocean; tugboats led the effort to no avail. The Sindia sat off the coast untouched. Divers were left to recover the oil, and sell it to soap companies under the name “Sindia Oil.” For years, the site of the wreck was a tourist destination. Beachgoers and visitors from across the eastern seaboard would travel to Ocean City to catch a glimpse of the vessel.
Up until 1960, most of the wreckage was visible. Beach replenishments and nor’easters would eventually bury the remainder of the ship and its contents. Only the masts would remain visible until the late 1980s when the Sindia disappeared. The site was dedicated as a historic landmark by the Department of the Interior.
The story of the Sindia can be read by all. A memorial plaque now stands a block away from where she ran aground.
Today, several remnants of the Sindia can be found at the Ocean City Historical Museum. There, guests can discover the history of its travels, photos, and long-told stories from witnesses and survivors. During your visit, be sure to check out all of the exhibits that showcase the life and history of our shore community. The museum is located in the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue, and is open Monday – Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.
To date, many tales have been told about shipwrecks that have taken place. Over 4,000 ships have run aground off of the New Jersey coast, but none has ever lived up to the tale about the Sindia.
Banquet and Meeting Space in Ocean City
Step into a world of sophistication and glamour at The Flanders banquet and meeting space, located in the heart of Ocean City. Whether you are planning a Bar Mitzvah, a board meeting, a bridal shower, or a retreat, The Flanders offers a venue that exudes charm and style for any special occasion.
Our dedicated Banquet & Event Manager, Lisa Torquati, will assist you in creating a personalized experience tailored to your unique needs and preferences. From themed menus to exquisite decorations, we ensure that every detail is taken care of to make your event truly memorable.
Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the Candlelight Ballroom, where candle chandeliers, cathedral ceilings, and grand columns create an ambiance of grandeur inspired by the 1920s. Alternatively, indulge in the luxury of the Crystal Ballroom, adorned with crystal chandeliers, gold trim vaulted ceilings, and lavish marble fireplace, evoking a sense of absolute magnificence.
Whether you are celebrating a special milestone or hosting a corporate event, The Flanders provides the perfect backdrop for your gatherings. With on-site accommodations and a full catering kitchen, planning your
event has never been easier.
Book your next event at The Flanders banquet and meeting space and embark on a journey of elegance
and sophistication in Ocean City's premier destination. Make your reservation today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Embark on a Fashion Journey with The Shoppes at The Flanders Hotel
Enter a realm of style and elegance at The Shoppes at The Flanders Hotel, a fashion haven curated with love and expertise by the visionary owner, Arlene Voudouris. Since 2009, Arlene has poured her heart and soul into creating a shopping experience that transcends the ordinary, delighting customers with a diverse selection of clothing, accessories, and jewelry that cater to every taste and size.
With a keen eye for trends and a deep understanding of the industry, Arlene Voudouris has steered The Shoppes through the everchanging world of fashion,
adapting and evolving to meet the needs and desires of her loyal clientele. Her unwavering passion for clothing and accessories shines through in every corner of the store, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and inspiring.
At The Shoppes, customers are not just shoppers— they are guests on a fashion journey guided by Arlene and her dedicated team of personal shopping assistants. From finding the perfect outfit to selecting the ideal accessory, every step of the shopping experience is in-
fused with Arlene's personal touch and attention to detail.
Explore a treasure trove of brands like Comfy USA, IC Collection, Winter Sun, Sun Kim, Iguana, and Khangura, carefully selected to offer a diverse range of styles and sizes for every body. Let the trained sales team assist
you in discovering the perfect fit, color, and style that reflects your unique personality and preferences.
As you wander through the aisles of handcrafted jewelry, exquisite handbags, and stylish shoes, you'll feel Arlene's presence in every carefully curated item, each chosen with a discerning eye for quality and beauty. The Shoppes at The Flanders Hotel is not just a place to shop—it's a destination where fashion dreams come to life, thanks to the vision and dedication of Arlene Voudouris.
