Press Releases

MANASQUAN, N.J. (Sept. 17, 2012) - A 1950s painting of the Algonquin building in Manasquan that was on display between the soda fountain and ticket takers in the old movie theatre entrance has returned to its home thanks to the generosity of Kathleen Cassidy.

Cassidy, who now lives in Bayville, donated the painting to Algonquin Arts Theatre this summer in loving memory of her father, Eden �Skeets� O�Hare, long-time Manasquan resident and the former manager of the movie house.

The painting is on display to the public in the Algonquin Arts Theatre Box Office during regular business hours, 12-6 p.m. weekday and 12-4 p.m. weekends. The box office will also be open one hour prior to performances of Gypsy on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from October 12-21.

Algonquin Arts Theatre is asking for the public�s help in identifying the artist. The paining is signed �GrosJean 50� and is painted on Masonite. Please call the box office at 732-528-9211 with any information related to the painting or artist.

O�Hare, who died in January at the age of 87, worked a number of jobs including a private detective. Special Police Officer for the Borough of Manasquan, Supervisor for the Monmouth County Highway Department and others. He served as a Manasquan Borough Councilman for 12 years. He was a member of the Manasquan Hook & Ladder Fire Co. No. 1 and the Fire Police, a member and former captain and president of the Manasquan First Aid Squad and a member of the B.P.O.E. Elks Lodge 2534.

While he was well-known for those jobs and his civic service, he was beloved by many residents as the manager of the Algonquin movie house. He worked welcoming patrons, taking tickets and then stood watch to be sure the patrons were not unruly during the film.