In the early 1800s, what is today known as Lakewood, New Jersey was inhabited by only a few hundred people. The town’s population grew steadily over the following decades, bolstered by the growth of iron mining and manufacturing industries in the surrounding area. It wasn’t until the 1890s, however, that Lakewood began to truly bloom as a vacation destination – thanks in part to the construction of the New Jersey Central Railroad.

Wealthy visitors from New York and Philadelphia flocked to Lakewood, drawn by its picturesque pine forests and mild temperatures. Many built grand “summer homes” that rivaled anything found in Manhattan or Newport. Soon, Lakewood became synonymous with glamour and luxury, attracting celebrities like John D. Rockefeller and Jay Gould. In addition to enjoying the town’s natural beauty, visitors could take advantage of numerous social clubs, horse racing at Monmouth Park Racetrack, and concerts at The Casino – a grand indoor facility that seated thousands.

Lakewood’s popularity continued into the early 20th century, but eventually waned as wealthy vacationers began seeking out new destinations. The onset of World War II brought significant change to Lakewood, as the US military established several bases in the area. Thousands of soldiers were trained at Fort Dix and other installations nearby. Once the war ended, many former servicemen decided to settle in Lakewood permanently.

Today, Lakewood is home to over 100,000 people from all walks of life. It’s one of the fastest-growing communities in New Jersey – and one of the most diverse. More than half of Lakewood’s residents are Orthodox Jews, while other sizable groups include African American and Latino populations.

Despite its rich history as a resort town, modern life in Lakewood is largely centered around family and community. There are many public parks and recreation areas where families can enjoy outdoor activities like picnicking, fishing, and hiking. Lakewood also offers a wide range of schools, from pre-K through college.

One of the most notable landmarks in Lakewood is the Lakewood BlueClaws stadium. The team competes in the South Atlantic League and regularly draws thousands of fans to its games. In addition to baseball, Lakewood is home to several other popular sports teams, such as the Lakewood Piners football and basketball teams.

Overall, Lakewood’s history is rich and fascinating – but its future looks even brighter. With a growing population, diverse community, and strong economy, this historic town is poised to thrive for years to come.