ABOUT US
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OUR STORY
The idea for the Harvey Cedars Historical Society came shortly after the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth decided to sell the Maris Stella oceanside property in the Fall of 2025. Joe Gieger, the Harvey Cedars Borough commissioner responsible for public works, parks & property, thought it would be in the community’s interest to save one of the cottages that was located on that property. He worked with the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth and developer, Ed Walters of Walters Custom Homes to donate a cottage to the Borough of Harvey Cedars.
Residents, inspired by famed LBI author, historian and longtime resident of Harvey Cedars, Maragaret “Poochy” Thomas, rallied around the idea of saving the iconic building, turning it into a museum containing artifacts from Harvey Cedars and opening for public access.
The Borough agreed and plans were put in place to move the cottage to the newly renovated Sunset Park.
Residents created the Harvey Cedars Historical Society and put together a Board of Directors, including Margaret “Poochy” Thomas, as its Honorary Board Member.
In May 2026, the Historical Society received its 50l(c)(3) non-profit designation.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Kevin Knightly - Chair
Mary Ellen Vatalaro - Vice Chair
Vincent Endres - Treasurer
Bob Budlow - Secretary
Benée Scola - Board Member
Richard Hathaway - Board Member
Sue Pohanka - Board Member
Margaret (Poochy) Thomas, Honorary Board Member
All Rights Reserved | ©2026 Harvey Cedars Historical Society | a registered 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
OUR MISSION
The mission of the Harvey Cedars Historical Society is to collect, preserve, and share the history of Harvey Cedars through artifacts, exhibits, and the operation of the Harvey Cedars Museum ensuring that the story of our community—past and present—is preserved for future generations.