The story of the largest Prohibition raid to take place on Barnegat Bay began years before the 18th Amendment had been ratified, when on Dec. 18, 1898, The New York Times announced a millionaire railroad tycoon and financier was coming to Ocean County.

“Mr. George Gould, who has decided to call his country place at Lakewood Georgian Court, is planning for the erection of a large building on his estate which will enable himself, friends, and children to ride, swim, and play tennis or golf indoors…