History Continued...
With the post World War II economic boom and the construction of the Garden State Parkway in 1954-55, Manasquan and its neighboring communities experienced another growth spurt. The newly opened Parkway made it easier to reach the Jersey Shore in far less time, and brought thousands of day-trippers and weekly visitors to the area.
In 1963 a contest to design a town banner was won by I. Maurice Stokes, a resident of the borough. His emblem showed the head of a Lenni Lenape Native American with waves on either side, over a gold shield flanked by seahorses. On the shield, a plow recalls Manasquan early farming days, and a sailing ship reflects the town’s maritime heritage. Three stars in the center of the emblem signify that New Jersey was the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
The Polic
e Department, established in 1888, now employs 18 officers and 27 part-time special officers. The special officers, are scheduled year-round for special events, parades, and other activities, but are busiest during the summer months when the population of the borough swells to 20,000.
Early town fathers’ foresight now makes for plentiful parkland in Manasquan. Other dedicated open spaces are a fishing pier, boat launches, and wildlife sanctuaries. A bicycle path leading from North Main Street west to Allenwood, is another popular amenity enjoyed by residents. Additionally, Manasquan Recreation offers a variety of programs for persons of all ages.
Manasquan's mile-long oceanfront, mostly municipally owned and operated, was augmented by the town’s acquisition of “Sea Watch Beach” in 2005, a section of the beachfront that had been privately owned. This beautiful and busy oceanfront has always been the jewel in Manasquan’s crown, and continues to draw visitors and new residents in droves. 
The Woman's Club of Manasquan, Manasquan Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1838, Manasquan River Group of Artists, Manasquan Kiwanis Club, Manasquan Elks Lodge No. 2534, Manasquan Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Manasquan Seniors, Squan Beach Life Saving Station Preservation Committee, Manasquan Beach Improvement Association, Manasquan Cahmber of Commerce, Squan Soccer Club, and Manasquan-Brielle Little League are some of the town’s longstanding athletic, service and social organizations.
On the occasion of its 100th a
nniversary in 1987, the Squan Village Historical Society, was established which today maintains the Bailey-Reed House, a museum at 105 South Street.
It was once said that Manasquan was a fine community for two things – to make a living and to enjoy life. This is every bit as true today, as Manasquan's 6,310 residents enjoy living in a classic American town of thriving businesses, good schools, civic responsibility and happy families - alongside the ocean, river, lakes, streams, and brooks that make Manasquan unique.