Marty Kane will be talking about when Lake Hopatcong was a major northeast resort. It was called the “Jewel of the Mountains” and within easy reach of large cities to the east, and local towns such as Madison. It was the perfect destination with Lake Hopatcong’s large size and 900 feet above seal level.

Shortly after train service began in the 1880s, there were large hotels, cottages, and campsites built. New Jersey’s largest lake soon had it all: jazz at various hotels, dance halls, big name vaudeville stars, and two amusement parks, including well-known Bertrand Island. From the 1880s to 1930s the lake welcomed thousands each year, including leaders in government, industry, and movie stars. Learn what led to Lake Hopatcong’s rise as a great resort and what happened in the ensuing years.

Marty Kane retired from a government career as a lawyer and manager He is chair of the Lake Hopatcong Foundation and a long-time president of the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum. He also serves as co-chair for the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, chairs the Mountain Lakes Planning Board, Morris County Heritage Commission, and the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund Review Board.