About Fair Haven's Navesink River

Fair Haven's Borough Council voted tonight to move forward with the acquisition of a waterfront home to create a passive park. Located at the end of DeNormandie Avenue, the piece is known locally as the Williams/Robards house.

Charles Williams, a free black American, built his homestead in 1853, long before the Civil War. The house had additions over the years, but retains it's hidden staircase, wavy glass windows and original cooking fireplace. The land itself is well suited for a park, it is level, without wetlands and boasts a magnificent variety of specimen trees.

Mayor Michael Halfacre, Borough Council and Fair Haven Administrator, Mary Howell have identified State, National and Monmouth County sources of funding to assist in the purchase of this park land. It is anticipated that this funding will alleviate much of the expense of the purchase for taxpayers.

It has been my pleasure working with Mr. Williams' decendants, brothers Don and Bob Robards in the sale of the property to my home town. The park will be named in honor of the Williams/Robards family, a fitting tribute to a family that has contributed to Fair Haven for 155 years.

It's a beautiful day in Fair Haven, so I thought I'd share a few favorite photos that I've taken of the river.

Fair Haven is a small town on the Navesink River, right between Red Bank and Rumson, known for it's picturesque neighborhoods with picket fences and small town atmosphere. It's a town where kids walk to top rated schools and ride their bikes to friends' houses. When the kids are a little older, they're off on bikes to sail or ride into Red Bank to see a movie.

It's like a town you'd remember from the 1950s where volunteerism is alive and well, full of green parks, where people have good neighbors in a laid back atmosphere. It's why I chose to raise my family here. If you'd like to bring your family to Fair Haven, just give me a call at 732-233-0294. I'll be happy to show you the neighborhoods and get you started enjoying one very special little town. I've been a local for 36 years, so I sure know the ins and outs and can guide you to a fine purchase or assist you in selling your home.

I'm off to host an Open House, but I'm going to cross the river where the dolphins are playing. We've been fortunate to have a pod of 15-20 dolphins - with baby calves, too - in the river since June 15th.

All photos Copyright Susan McLaughlin