Al Crescenzo knows a lot about the history of Ocean City. The retired teacher and docent at Ocean City Historical Museum is commonly known by his nickname ‘TriviAL’ and is particularly versed in Grace Kelly’s storied past on the island. Now, he is sharing his wealth of knowledge with others.
On Wednesday, June 3, the museum is hosting its annual Grace Kelly High Tea at the Flanders Hotel. More than 150 people are expected to attend this year’s program, one that will shine a spotlight on a small part of Kelly’s life. “Every year I found different aspects of her life to talk about,” says Crescenzo. “This year I’m [discussing] her children and what became of them.”
Over the past ten years, Crescenzo, a South Philadelphia native and Temple graduate, has presented at the annual Grace Kelly Tea, talking about her short-lived movie career, life on the island, and other aspects of the Kelly family. “I was a history teacher for thirty-five years, so I was always fascinated by prominent people from the past.”
Born in Philadelphia in 1929, Grace Kelly was a well-known fixture in the island community, spending the summer months just one block from the beach at 26th Street and Wesley Avenue. She was once a participant in the annual Baby Parade and worked at The Chatterbox before leading a life of fame.
Kelly had a brief stint on Broadway before becoming a Hollywood actress. Though she only starred in eleven films, she won two Golden Globe Awards, for her supporting role in Mogambo and The Country Girl.
In 1955, she met Prince Rainier III of Monaco while attending the Cannes Film Festival. The pair married one year later in what would be known as the Wedding of the Century. Upon assuming the title of Princess of Monaco, Kelly became an ambassador on the world stage. She founded AMADE Mondiale, an organization promoting fundamental rights of children worldwide.
Although Grace Kelly died in a car accident in 1982, her legacy remains strong throughout the island. The Kelly family home, built by her father Jack Kelly, remains largely untouched to this day, and is a marvel to witness.
Those who visit the Ocean City Historical Museum can learn more about her life in an interactive display. ‘The Kelly Family: Ocean City’s brush with Royalty.’ It features over a dozen archival photographs, rare memorabilia, facts, and quotes from the late Princess Grace. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Grace & Her Dynasty will be held on Wednesday, June 3 at the Flanders Hotel in Ocean City. The reception will begin at 1 p.m. followed by high tea at 2 p.m. Tickets are $65 per person and can be purchased at the Historical Museum at 1735 Simpson Avenue. Interested guests can also call the museum at 609-399-1801. Seating is limited and guests must RSVP by May 26.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
