Days Gone By
Thanks to Mary Ellen Wagner, who spent summers at her grandfather’s and uncle’s homes in Avalon Manor for this great photo. This is the old “swing” bridge on Avalon Boulevard when the main entrance to Avalon came through 21st Street. Construction began in 1912 on what would be the first bridge onto the island for automobiles. The bridge was dedicated July 12, 1913 – 110 years ago this summer. The bridge was in use until 1969 when the new Avalon Boulevard and bridge coming into 30th Street were introduced. When the bridge first opened to traffic, it was hand-operated to open, or “swing” open for marine traffic. The operation required one or two men. The process of unlocking the bridge, cranking it open, and then cranking it closed, and relocking often took at least 30 minutes. Locals, who were used to getting caught behind an opening would often break out a fishing rod and would fish off the side for the duration of the opening. This photo was taken in 1965, after electric machinery was introduced to speed the process, and taken from the docks at the Driftwood Marina, also known as Dutch’s. The marina and luncheonette were operated by George and Dutch Cornish. Today, what was their marina is part of Avalon Marine Center. Thanks again for the submission.
If You Have A Photo From The Past Send It To Us: Days Gone By, PO BOX 134, Avalon NJ 08202 - OR - Email info@7miletimes.com