Preview unwraps new exhibition FREEHOLD - Members and friends of the Monmouth County Historical Association are invited to a special preview party celebrating the opening of "By the Sea" - an exhibition featuring the many aspects of shore culture that developed in Monmouth County. On Sept. 23 from 2-5 p.m., MCHA members and friends will enjoy guided tours of the newly opened exhibit and boardwalk-themed games and snacks on the MCHA's museum's property at 70 Court St. The exhibition, which will open to the public on Sept. 25, will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. "By the Sea" will feature a specially created boardwalk showcasing an early wicker boardwalk cart from Asbury Park and a variety of period costumes. Aspects of shore culture to be highlighted will include the Victorian Era; Proper Attire; Area Entertainment and Diversions; Communities and Clubs; Business at the Shore; and Lifesaving. Visitors to the exhibit will gain a comprehensive knowledge of the early days of shore tourism and business. In addition to maps of the changing shoreline, items on display will include the following: • Engravings depicting season-long residents arriving with trunks of possessions. • A seasonal resident's scrapbook illustrating the variety of activities and menus. • Flatware and serving pieces from the Hotel Panacci, as well as the guest register. • Images from the popular weekly newspapers Harper's and Leslie's. • Silk and wool bathing costumes from the 1920s. • Monmouth Park memorabilia and ephemera. • Croupier's chair from Daley's Gambling House in Long Branch. • Photographs and woodcuts depicting life in Ocean Grove. • Four ice cream chairs from Day's Tea Room and Ice Cream Parlor in Asbury Park. • Turn of the century glassware and ceramic souvenir pieces from the George H. Moss Jr. Collection. • Graphic images and photographs illustrating the history of lifesaving in the area. For information on becoming an MCHA member, call (732) 462-1466 or visit the Web site www.monmouthhistory. org. This exhibition is made possible by a project grant to the MCHA from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division in the Department of State.