Books about Long Beach Island by John Bailey-Lloyd

Books about Long Beach Island By John Bailey Lloyd

Last Updated on September 17, 2023 by Christopher G Mendla

Last Updated on September 17, 2023 by Christopher G Mendla

Discover the captivating tales of Long Beach Island with books by John Bailey Lloyd. Dive into the rich history & culture of LBI. Explore now!

John Bailey Lloyd was a historian who documented much of Long Beach Island’s early history. I had the pleasure of listening to one of his presentations at the Spray Beach Yacht Club. He was a fascinating speaker and had a genuine love for the history of LBI.

Mr. Lloyd passed away a few years ago. However, he left a legacy of books that provide a look into the past.


Two Centuries of history on LBI

Discover the captivating history of Long Beach Island and its neighboring mainland in the updated second printing of John Bailey Lloyd’s renowned pictorial history book. Unearth the secrets of Island architecture, shipwrecks, names, and storms in this delightful exploration of a bygone era. Lloyd, a beloved author of Long Beach Island, transports readers with tales of Life-Saving Service crews, rum-runners, wartime summers, and more. Over 200 historic photos and illustrations breathe life into the narrative.

Delve into short profiles of notable Long Beach Islanders, including summer residents like Jay Cooke, the Civil War financier, and Frederick P. Small, American Express president with an ocean-to-bay estate in Harvey Cedars. You’ll also meet colorful local characters such as “Hammy” the game warden and “Citizen” Bill Kane, and uncover intriguing details about Beach Haven’s historic district, the architecturally striking Onion Domes, and the Seven Sisters cottages.

From Tucker’s Island to Barnegat Light, this book revisits the romantic past of Long Beach Island and the surrounding mainland. It even includes selected essays and articles from other period writers, providing a comprehensive look at the region’s rich history.

Explore Long Beach Island’s captivating history with John Bailey Lloyd’s vivid storytelling and immerse yourself in the tales of an era gone by. Click the link to discover more on Amazon!


Six Miles At Sea: A Pictorial History of Long Beach Island, New Jersey

Celebrate the 30th Anniversary Edition of this book, now enhanced with an exquisite artistic cover, improved image reproductions, and a treasure trove of newly unearthed historical photographs. This edition pays a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of John Bailey Lloyd.

Within these pages, embark on a captivating journey back in time to the Edwardian era of Beach Haven, where the origins of Barnegat Lighthouse unfold, and the indomitable spirit of the U.S. Lifesaving Service shines through. Experience the relentless forces of nature, from the destructive Hurricane of ’44 to the formidable March northeaster of ’62. Discover the ever-changing southern end of the Island, marked by a “new inlet,” an “old inlet,” and the mysterious disappearance of Tucker’s Island.

Learn the secrets of Prohibition-era bootleggers and savor stories from the Island’s favorite watering holes during the days “When Beer Was Ten Cents A Glass.” Encounter the eccentricities of a resident of Barnegat Light and delve into an intriguing episode involving the U.S. Supreme Court.

During World War II, explore the forgotten period of the Island known as “In the Days of the Dune Hoppers,” where hotels hosted soldiers, military patrols galloped along the beaches on horseback, and oceanside blackouts were a stark reality. Uncover the adventures of aristocratic men drawn to the shore in the era of “Ducks, Guns, and Money on Old Barnegat Bay.”

Discover the origins of town names like Beach Arlington, Long Beach City, Peahala, and the intriguing debate surrounding “Harvey Cedars or Harvest Cedars?” Dive into the summers of baseball and relive the legend of Roger “Doc” Cramer. Fondly reminisce about the Lucy Evelyn, a schooner that captivated hearts much like Barnegat Lighthouse itself.

In this affectionate recounting of history, trace the footsteps of those who first journeyed to the Shore on early automobile highways or arrived by train to stay at the grand old hotels. And, you’ll uncover the intriguing genesis of the enduring phrase, “Six Miles At Sea.”

John Bailey Lloyd, whose lyrical and pioneering writings have inspired numerous books about Jersey Shore history, is the mastermind behind this narrative. These pages offer a genuine sense of place, inviting readers to connect with the Island’s captivating past. Complementing this volume are three elegant companion books that delve into the rich tapestry of Shore history with a special focus on LBI. While the Island has transformed over the last century, these images from a simpler and wilder time serve as a poignant reminder of our enduring connection to this cherished locale.

For modern-day Shore enthusiasts, this edition bridges the gap with their counterparts from days gone by. These books provide a unique opportunity to rediscover a remarkable seaside haven – a place of beauty, occasional danger, and profound personal connection, both then and now.


Eighteen Miles of History on Long Beach Island Hardcover – August 17, 1994

Introducing the first installment in a captivating trilogy by John Bailey Lloyd, this exquisite volume immerses readers in the rich history of Long Beach Island. Described by The Record of Hackensack as a “loving history,” the book is a meticulously crafted hardcover edition adorned with an array of historic photographs, engravings, maps, and illustrations that vividly bring the Jersey Shore’s past to life.

Within its pages, readers will embark on a journey to rediscover the vanished retreat of Sea Haven and Tucker’s Island. They will traverse the Tuckerton and Long Beach railroads, venturing toward the burgeoning Beach Haven resort, where charming and breezy seashore hotels await. A leisurely stroll along its elegant boardwalk awaits them as well. The book also delves into the gripping accounts of the infamous 1916 shark attacks, explores the early gunning and yacht clubs, and provides a glimpse into the world of pound fishermen hauling in bountiful catches just off the beach.

John Bailey Lloyd’s masterful storytelling, coupled with the enchanting imagery from the past, imbues readers with an authentic sense of this remarkable locale.

Summary: This is the first book in a trilogy by John Bailey Lloyd, offering a loving history of Long Beach Island. It is a beautifully presented hardcover filled with historic photographs, engravings, maps, and illustrations that vividly depict the Jersey Shore’s past. Readers will rediscover lost resorts, experience the development of Beach Haven, and learn about significant events, all brought to life through Lloyd’s excellent writing and historic images.


Long Beach Island Historical Postcards Paperback – October 2, 1995


Discover Long Beach Island’s rich history through 22 captivating images that paint a romantic portrait of this cherished New Jersey Shore destination. These enchanting visuals, sourced from historian John Bailey Lloyd’s island-centric books, showcase the beach, bay, fishing scenes, summer delights, the iconic Beach Haven boardwalk, local landmarks, and intriguing historical moments that are uniquely Long Beach Island’s own. This high-quality, conveniently sized paperback (7” x 5”) features perforated pages, allowing you to detach the durable, coated-stock postcards for mailing while preserving this charming piece of history. Explore the island’s past and order your copy today through our Amazon ad link!

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