Longport Gospel Hall Home, NJ

The Longport Gospel Hall Home For Aged Christians was started by William Moon in 1946 as a retirement home in Longport, New Jersey for aging maid-servants of wealthy Philadelphia homeowners, as a service exclusively to the open brethren Gospel Halls. The home had a capacity of 65 residents at a given time, and for many years had a lengthy waiting list, before closing in 2000.

It met initially at 24th & Oberon Ave. 1947-1948, then moved to its permanent location at Atlantic Ave. and 29th St. 1949-2000. The following is history on the latter location via Dan Shutt of Detroit.

"In 1911, Peter A. B. Widener purchased beachfront property between 28th and 29th avenues in Longport. In this space of land he built the Widener Industrial School as a “Summer Seashore Home for Handicapped Children.” Severely handicapped children were provided with a rigid schedule of rehabilitation at the school. When it opened, approximately 54 percent of the children had infantile paralysis and 36 percent were afflicted with tuberculosis of the spine.

The school was later re-named the Widener Memorial School, shortly after Widener’s son, George Dunton Widener and his grandson Harry Elkins Widener, died in the sinking of the Titanic. Over time, as treatment changed for handicapped children, enrollment began to decline at the Widener School. During World War I the building was used to treat soldiers and was vacated again in 1941 to allow the Armed Services to train on the beach in the back of the building.

In 1944 the Widener School building was purchased by William J. Bates who also owned the Canterbury Hall and the Winchester Hotel. He converted the building into his third hotel, known as the Essex Beach Club. It remained as a hotel until sold to The Gospel Hall Home for the Aged in 1949. It remained as the Gospel Hall until its demolition. The property is now home to 12 beach block homes known as the Widener Reserve."

Be sure to check out the "Also See" section towards the bottom for expansion on those involved, and visiting ministry.

1947-1949 News

This news was originally published in Light and Liberty (1931-1966), edited by Lloyd Walterick of Walterick Publishers based in Fort Dodge, IA in that era. News is also included from Assembly Annals (1926-1965),

1947

Jan: The Sisters Missionary Class of the Gospel Hall, Ventnor, New Jersey, is taking this means of giving information concerning the Gospel Hall Home for Aged Christians that has just been purchased in Longport, N.J., and would like to have the interest and help of other Sister-Groups in equipping the Home. Any packages or donations may be sent to Mrs. Raymond Sunderland, 20 S. Andover Ave., Margate, N.J."

Feb: Gospel Hall Home For Aged Christians, 24th and Oberon Ave., Longport, N.J.: The brethren responsible for the above home have made settlement on the building and are now busy having the necessary repairs and changes made. When finished it will be very comfortable for aged Christians to enjoy their closing days on this earth. An opening is planned for Saturday, Feb. 22, which will be carried through Lord's day. A number of the Lord's servants are expected and Christians are invited to come and visit the Home.

Any of the assemblies who would like to apply for space should write for an application. So far there are about twenty-eight applicants, so first come, first served to those who are eligible. A Library of good sound books with large print if possible, is being made. Any such books available can be sent in care of the home. To be exempt from property tax and also to open such a Home it was necessary to incorporate under the New Jersey state laws, and so the following brethren were appointed to serve as officers and trustees:

• Wm. Moon, President
• G.A. Stahl, Vice-President
• John Lloyd, Secretary
• Raymond Sunderland, Vice-Secretary
• Louis Smith, Treasurer
• Robert A. Crawford
• Arthur Davenport

Apr: Robert A. Crawford, 401 Elderslee Rd., R.F.D. 11, Pittsburgh 27, PA, Mar. 1: "Was with George Gould for five weeks gospel meetings at Niagara Falls. In spite of adverse weather conditions, attendance was good, but results in conversions were lacking. Had the privilege of being at the opening for the Home for Aged in Longport, New Jersey, last weekend. Will begin a series of gospel meetings in W. Chicago Blvd. Hall, Detroit, tomorrow."

July: "We have seen God's hand of blessing upon us in every step of the way. Perhaps you may better understand what great things the Lord has wrought here for His own, as it comes from the heart of one who enjoys the happy privileges. Our beloved sister, Mrs. Lilly Thomas, who comes commended from the Bronx Assembly, says: "I am so happy and thankful to the Lord for opening up this haven of rest for me, for which I have prayed for several years. From the moment I entered though late in the day, I felt the Christian atmosphere. I was welcomed by those who were here at that time and fell in love with them and the home. I thank my Father daily, yes hourly, for placing me here." Will be glad to consider any applicants that are submitted to us by any in your assembly. We would like again, to extend an invitation to any who are interested in seeing the home, at their own convenience. Please continue to pray for us that the Lord may give us wisdom and guidance in all matters pertaining to the Home. Wm. Moon."

1948

Feb: "We are again privileged to arrange for special conference meetings over the Washington's birthday holiday, Feb. 21-23. The first meeting will be for prayer Sat. Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m. All meetings will be held and meals served at the home. We will try to accommodate as many as possible coming from a distance or arrange for accommodation. Everyone is heartily invited. Angus Weir and William Moon."

Apr: "While we are all well and enjoying good health, it is rather difficult to travel to conferences. Hence, we invited the Christians to come here and visit the Home on Feb. 22-23 and have a conference with the saints here. About two hundred stayed over the three days and we had eight of the Lord's servants to give helpful ministry. We have about thirty old people at present, and expect about twenty more to reach building capacity. William Moon."

Nov: "In every true sense of the word we can call our home a haven of rest for His own in the late years of their lives. The members of our family now number thirty-nine and with other applications pending we realize the necessity for this home. When an individual requests entrance, an application is forwarded and when endorsed by the brethren from the assembly with which the applicant is identified it is then judged as to the emergency and need of the person applying for such a home. Those privileged to carry on this work are doing it for the Lord. It has been necessary to equip a room with a hospital bed and needs for the sick. Such expenses are contributed by the assemblies and individuals of the Lord's people."

1949

May: Gospel Hall Home for Aged Christians, 24th St., Longport, N.J. held a grand open house Feb. 22-23. Many of the Lord's people attended and were refreshed in spirit by the messages from God's word ministered through His servants. Those taking part were William Moon, Robert Crawford, Benjamin Bradford, John Conaway, Paul Plubell, Gordon Reager, Ernest Sprunt, Bro. Glasgow, H. Marshall, and others. This home in large and comfortable, a delightful place for Aged Christians to spent their closing days on this earth."

"Favorable progress has been made regarding the purchase of the Essex Hotel in Longport, to be used as a home for more of the aged Christians who are in need of a home. At this writing $30,000.00 has been paid and with what will be realized after the sale of the present building, there will still be a balance of approximately $25,000.00 required for settlement by June 1. We would like to have the interest of all the Lord's people in the purchase of these larger quarters, as we have taken this step in the full confidence of the Lord and we believe He is able. Looking over the past two and a half years since this home was opened we have been made to realize and thank God for His unceasing faithfulness in supplying every need, opening ways and means for His people to be cared for in this the eventide of their lives. "He is faithful that promised." (Hebrews 10:23). Please continue to pray that we may still definitely be guided and that God's good hand may be seen in this undertaking for His glory. Wm. Moon."

Sept: "Conference meetings will be held at the time of the formal opening of the Gospel Hall Home for Aged Christians in their new building on Atlantic Ave. and 29th St. in Longport, New Jersey. Accommodations will be provided for as many as possible in the new home, and suitable hotel accommodations at reasonable rates can be secured near by. The meetings will be held on Saturday and Lord's Day, Oct. 8 and 9, at 10, 2:30 and 7, with a prayer meeting Friday night, Oct. 7 at 7:30. Communications may be addressed to William Moon, 29th & Atlantic Ave., Longport, N.J."

1950

Starting around 1950, Light and Liberty ran an advertisement in each issue for "The Winchester House" of Longport, N.J. "An exclusive Hotel for relaxation and rest. Christian atmosphere, ocean views, appetizing meals, convenient to Atlantic City, open all year. For details, write to Mr. and Mrs. Geo. C. Wright, Proprietors." I think it was typical for assembly magazines' advertisers to be primarily serving those businessmen in fellowship with area assemblies, although not exclusively. More news concerning Longport may be found at Visiting Ministry at Longport Gospel Hall Home, NJ, as well as at Who's Who at Longport Gospel Hall Home, NJ. These links will also be available towards the end of this primary article.

1985: "An Interesting Report of God's Work at the Longport Home

• by Miss Faye E. Wahls (Administrator 1970-2000), in May 1985 Truth & Tidings

"'Here in Longport, there has been raised this edifice to the marvelous, tender, gracious care and power of our wonderful God. This Home has been established after great prayer and great exercise. Thank God for these men and these sisters and for all those who have worked to make it possible.' Although these words were spoken at the opening of the Gospel Hall Home for the Aged, the same thoughts have been expressed many times in the succeeding decades.

In every age, God has men of vision to carry out His will. Such a man was William Moon. For years he felt a need for a retirement home 'where the aged and the afflicted of the Lord's dear people could be cared for.' Envisioning this home, he wrote, 'We are not thinking of anything institutional, rather, we are thinking of a real home-like, reverential, Christian atmosphere.'

One of the marks of Spirit-born exercise is that God often raises up fellow believers to share in the furtherance of His work. Godly men gathered around Mr. Moon in the early days, supporting and encouraging him, so that in his opening day report, he could say, 'We prayed earnestly about this matter and then asked the assemblies throughout the Eastern Seaboard to also pray with us to know the Lord's guidance. The Lord in a wonderful way directed us to the present location.'

In 1946, the dream became a reality when a five story frame building was purchased which at that time dominated the Longport, New Jersey landscape with its view of both the Atlantic Ocean and the bay waters. The Lord's people responded to the call to help clean and redecorate the place and prepare it for occupancy. Several residents were already living in it by the time the opening conference was held in February, 1947.

It was soon evident that the place was too small and, as often happens, divine sovereignty and human responsibility blended to advance the work to the next stage. The former owner of the building professed faith in Christ as a result of the testimony of the people living and working at the Home and showed an interest in the work. He also owned a nearby beach-front property and beach club. He had instructed his wife that after his death she should offer that property to Mr. Moon at a price they could afford. So, in 1949, the Home was able to purchase the commodious building.

This stately brick building with pillared portico and a large front lawn with formal flower gardens covers a city block. It was built in the early 1900's as a summer home for handicapped children. The front portion has a second floor topped by a white cupola, while the one-story wings extend to the ocean. Here, nursing services were provided on a very limited basis, but the Lord knew that more room was needed for this type of care. In the spring of 1962, a severe storm hit the eastern coastal areas. Tides were running high and waves were wild. Strong winds kept the tide from going out and a second tide was exceptionally high. The waves beat upon the end wall until it yielded, leaving a large, gaping hole. Water and sand poured in and much damage was done to the basement and end wall, but, by the preserving power of God, no one was injured.

As with Job and his affliction, the Lord blessed our latter end more than our beginning. Through the exercise and practical help of the Lord's people, the final result of the devastating storm was that we were left with a bigger and better facility than before. The broken wall was repaired, a stronger bulkhead was built and eight rooms were added to the infirmary.

In the 1960's, the well-known preacher Randy Amos worked there as a cook.

In 1977, eight bedrooms and an activity room were added on the patio side of the residential wing. Throughout the years much of the interior has been remodeled and redecorated. Nevertheless, with high ceilinged rooms, donated antiques and Victorian decor, it still retains much of its old fashioned charm.

This is still a Home for the Aged and admission is primarily to one of the 49 private rooms on the residential wing. The residents may bring as much of their own furniture with them as they wish. When the residents need nursing care, they are transferred to the infirmary unit where there are semi-private and four-bed rooms, and nurses who minister to their needs 24 hours a day. Doctors, physical therapists, dentists, laboratory and x-ray technicians are on call to provide services at the Home.

The Christians living in the Home at present come commended from 36 different assemblies located in 12 northeastern states. There are 12 who are past ninety and the average age of all is 85. Many improve in health after coming here and perhaps that is part of the reason that the average length of stay is seven years.

Little did Mr. Moon envision the complexities of the 1970's and 1980's in the government regulations that began to descend upon us. Nevertheless, we have attempted to preserve the family atmosphere sought for from the beginning. Residents are encouraged to carry on much as they would in their own home. In the living room residents may be found visiting, reading, doing handwork or on occasion enjoying fellowship beside an open fire. In the large adjoining room, the piano and organ provide accompaniment for hymn sings which are sometimes shared with visiting friends. The book-reading group meets in this room and it is also the place for showing travel and missionary slides, having activities with visiting children and holiday get-togethers.

The spacious dining room is the scene of many happy occasions. Here wholesome meals are served family-style. Tray service is provided for those who need it.

Daily Bible readings are held in the infirmary sitting room as well as at the regular coffee hour and exercise sessions. The tea room is a place bustling with activity at any hour as residents prepare tea or snacks. Special holidays prompt picnics on the front lawn or patio. Shopping trips are frequent and several times a year rides through the countryside are welcome outings. "Mini-Mall" and visits from a clothing company provide shopping opportunities for those unable to go out. Many of the residents help one another and some volunteer their services in the dining room, kitchen, office or infirmary.

Many of the 19 full-time and 18 part-time workers are hired from the local community and are selected for their kind and caring ways. Presently, most of the supervisory staff are in fellowship in the local assembly and several live in the Home.

A Board of six brethren from neighboring assemblies meets monthly to determine policies, direct financial affairs, and act on admissions. They given an annual report to the many who attend the anniversary dinner held at the Home each spring. Friends and families are welcome to visit then or at any time they are in this area.

The Gospel Hall Home is unique in that the Longport assembly of Christians meets in the Home auditorium, thus making it possible for those in wheelchairs, or otherwise handicapped, to attend the meetings and visit with other Christians.

There has been much cause for rejoicing in the way the Lord led to the opening of the Home and has guided and provided in all the ensuing years. Many older saints, dear to the Lord, have been helped and cared for during a very difficult period of their lives. It is not easy to give up one's home, move away from family and friends, have poor health, adjust to new routines and live graciously with others' idiosyncracies.

In spite of these difficult lessons, and perhaps because of them, spiritual growth has been evident. Employees have been attracted to Christ by the lives of these older saints and a number have been saved. Staff and visitors have been uplifted and encouraged. As the Psalmist says, 'They shall still bring forth fruit in old age' (Psalms 92:14)."

1989: "Is This My Responsibility?"

• by William J. Oliver, Bryn Mawr, Pa for Truth and Tidings.

"In the midst of the sufferings of Calvary, the Lord Jesus left us a very practical example of care. Viewing His mother and John the beloved disciple at the foot of the cross, He first introduced her into a relationship: "Behold thy son". Then He introduced John to a responsibility: "Behold thy mother". The result was a care to assume and a love to enjoy. "That disciple took her unto his own home" (John 19:26-27)

The guides in the early church recognized a need to provide practical physical care. The result was they "looked out" men of "honest report" to carry out the existing need. Later Paul in writing to Timothy in his first epistle gave instructions regarding the responsibility of believers individually and the church collectively.

The purpose of this brief article is not to give an exposition of the truth found in Scripture regarding our responsibility to "consider one another". The intent is to answer a question regarding the costs of operating a home for the aged in this twentieth century, while maintaining the principles which we hold dear in assemblies.

The Gospel Hall Home for the Aged Inc. in Longport NJ was founded in 1946 as a result of the exercise of a number of local brethren spearheaded by Mr. William Moon. The mission of the Home was to provide residential care in a Christian atmosphere for those who did not have a suitable source of care or were unable to care for themselves.

In those early days, there were many maiden sisters who were finishing their work careers on private estates and had no home in this country. There were as well some of the Lord's people whose families were all unsaved. The twentieth century also brought about circumstances which were not as conducive for grandparents to remain in the next generation home.

The residential Home by the seashore provides for many a great source of fellowship and enjoyment in what is now called the "golden years". In early days, many of the residents carried out most of the tasks at the Home. With the passing of time, it became necessary to add an infirmary so that the Lord's people would not have to go to a non Christian environment for full care. This infirmary care, coupled with the dwindling of volunteer help and the increasing complexity of government regulations and demands has resulted in greater costs.

The basic rules for admission have not changed despite the passing of years. Our mission is still the same: the desire to provide a caring, loving atmosphere, similar to an individual's home. But with these constants, there has been change. Volunteer help has diminished so that now we must meet a $15,000 payroll every two weeks. Around the clock nursing in our infirmary accounts for a good bit of the cost of operation. No resident in Longport receives a bill for his room and board. Each year the residents are told the estimated cost of operating the Home. This per month operating costs is left with them, before the Lord, to provide what they are able to pay. Presently, 46-25 of our residents are unable to meet the minimum monthly cost. Forty percent of the nursing care residents could be "medicaid eligible" but we do not apply to the government for assistance.

From hits inception to the present, the Longport Home has cared for 396 Christians from 136 different assemblies. How are the costs met if payment from residents does not meet all the need? Is this MY responsibility?

We are thankful to say that there are many individuals and assemblies who have felt that it was part of their responsibility to share in the care of the Lord's own. We have never sent out a letter of solicitation and have tried to report only facts at our annual report meeting, believing that the Lord would supply in His own time and way. We can testify to His faithfulness. We do not, however, operate with an excess of funds. We are not able to get the latest in equipment or gadgets as we might like, but we believe the Lord's people get quality, loving care.

Some who are familiar with Longport know that we are attempting to relocate inland. The oceanfront location causes us concern during storms. We will only be able to accomplish this as a result of the value of the present property. Its sale will provide the basic funds to build a new facility. Though we are not sure that its sale will account for all the cost, we are looking to the Lord to guide us in this undertaking. Pray with us.

I am reluctant to write some of the facts which I have because it is not the intent of the board to change our approach to our needs. However, to respond to the inquiry as to how the Lord's people can be better informed about operating a Home, I have sought to give this information. Other Homes such as Elim in Waubashene, Ontario; Linn Manor in Marion, Iowa; Bethany Lodge in Unionville, Ontario and others, have similar interests and needs. They could also clarify any questions which you might have.

"Is this my responsibility?" Consider the example of the Savior at the cross, and act accordingly. Yours will be the happy portion of knowing that your interests are in line with your Lord's. "I have been young and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread." (Ps. 39:25)."

1992 Promo for Assembly Retirement Homes for T&T

"Believers should be aware that such homes as Bethany Lodge, Longport Gospel Hall Home for Christians, Linn Manor Care Center and Rest Haven Homes provide a very necessary care for older saints. They have a major problem in meeting constantly increasing financial burdens and only a small part of their needs are met by gifts from assemblies and individuals."

1994: Edwin Fesche testimony for Uplook

An Appreciation of Home: "Next to our own home, we have discovered a home away from home. No small claim indeed! The tidiness and cleanliness of this home deserves high marks. So does the staff from the director to the least of the attendants. Friendliness and cooperation characterize all. No wonder, for we are in a Christian atmosphere. Much liberty is entrusted and enjoyed by the residents. While those in measurable health can enjoy this liberty, it is comforting to know that the varied amenities of the infirmary are well prepared for any emergency.

Where cultivation is possible, the colorful flowers and well-manicured lawn fit the emblazoned title on the building. The spacious sea frontage to the Home affords an excellent view of the ocean, especially of an eastern sunrise, a reward to the early riser. The sands themselves invoke wonder to the observer. The stormy waves effortlessly move massive deposits from one area to another, often creating surprise in dwellers who felt their beach was stable. A stroller along the sands on a winter's day often has only the seagulls as his companions. They seem so tame.

A spirit of camaraderie is often encountered among other fellow walkers of the sands. Sometimes a bit of the gospel can be slipped into a conversation. Sometimes we have witnessed flapping fish caught by the pole-fishermen during the season. On one occasion, we mentioned the One who can make us fishers of men. We have been also pleasantly surprised to learn how many notice and read the Scripture texts that decorate the Home.

On account of limited vision, I am appreciating my borrowed radio. The broadcast news helps me to keep abreast of the current events so graphically moving toward fulfilling biblical signs. Then, too, there are three Christian stations. That assures us that God still has His witnesses that reach the otherwise unreachable. Also, we are treated to some excellent sermons, gifts of the risen Head of the Church so that our faith is nurtured by "hearing the preached Word."

Recently we figuratively glued our seat to the desk chair and wrote some suggestions for the 1995 Choice Gleanings Calendar. So we feebly attempt to obey the Saviour's command: "Occupy till I come". Like Gideon's 300, we are faint, yet still pursuing." Edwin Fesche

1994: Miss Faye E. Wahls testimony for Uplook

Gospel Hall Home for the Aged, 2800 Atlantic Ave., Longport, NJ 08403: "Sometimes in the progression of life there comes a time to move. Perhaps security or services become a necessity. The question then arises: "Where shall I go?" One of the reasons Christians decide to come to the Gospel Hall Home is to be with others who love the Lord. Of special interest is the fact that the meetings of the local assembly are held in the auditorium. No more concern about weather or transportation. Bible studies are held several times each week. Songs and devotions follow each meal and old-fashioned hymn sings are frequent. Besides the spiritual atmosphere, there is a calm serenity that greets those who enter the spacious, high-ceilinged, Victorian living room where groups of residents are visiting or reading, or just relaxing.

In the south wing, single rooms with private baths or half-baths are furnished, either by the resident or the Home, to suit the needs and tastes of the individual. The emphasis at the Home is on providing a place as much like one's own home as possible. Three home cooked meals are served family-style each day in the newly decorated dining room. Snacks can be prepared and shared with friends in the tearoom. Should residents become ill or in need of more continuous care, they would find shared rooms in the nursing care wing. Gentle, loving care is provided by professional nurses and certified nursing assistants. Doctors visit the Home weekly, and transportation and assistance are provided for appointments outside the Home.

Every attempt possible is made to maintain their normal life-styles. This might mean providing space for studying, or letter writing, or growing plants or handwork. Group activities include exercise class, book reading, missionary reports, reminiscing, quiz games, travel videos, news films, birthday and anniversary celebrations, and an occasional wedding! Those consider a move to the Home are encouraged to come while they can still enjoy the independent life on the residential side. Through careful management, room and board costs are lower than the majority of nursing homes in this country. Those living here are expected to pay the cost if they are able. We are not a government supported home. Gifts of the Lord's people, collectively and individually, make up the difference for those unable to pay the cost. There is no entrance fee and payments are usually monthly.

The Gospel Hall Home has served the Lord's people since 1946, when Mr. William Moon, with the assistance of other brethren, purchased a five-story frame building in Longport, NJ. Three years later, he was able to buy an oceanfront property with a stately brick building which, after some remodeling, was made suitable for a "home for the aged". Throughout the years, rooms have been added and other changes made to accommodate the current needs of 60 to 65 residents. About eight years ago, plans were drawn up to construct a new building offshore. To obtain the capital, we hoped to sell our present property, but because of a change in the economy, this is not presently feasible.

The Lord knows the future. He knows our needs and the needs of His people. The Gospel Hall Home has been the subject of many, many prayers. It is the Lord, through the prayers and service of His people, who has enabled us to continue serving those in need." submitted by Miss Faye E. Wahls

Administrators

• William Moon 1946-1949+
• Miss Faye E. Wahls +1989-1994+

Also See

• Visiting Ministry at Longport Gospel Hall Home, NJ
  • includes area conference news, etc.

• Who's Who at Longport Gospel Hall Home, NJ
  • including leadership, obits, etc.

Location History

• 24th & Oberon Ave. 1947-1948
• Atlantic Ave. and 29th St. 1949-2000

Sources

• Henry Carmichael & Dr. Sandy Higgins, both of NJ, 2020;
• Dan Shutt @ Detroit, MI 2020
• Randy Amos data from Calista Ruga 9-23-2024
• Assembly Annals
• Letters of Interest
  • 1989:2
• Light & Liberty
  • 1949:8
• Truth & Tidings
  • 1985:5; 1989:12
• Uplook
  • 1994:9