Nicknamed “The Pearl of the Bayshore”, Keyport has a land area of 1.40 square miles. Established as a Borough in 1908, Keyport’s geographic location along the Raritan Bay has fostered numerous harbor facilities and a strong charter boat industry. The sheltered coast of Keyport allowed for the establishment of a thriving oyster industry which lasted until the mid-20th century. Between 1917 and 1937, Keyport was home to the Aeromarine Plane and Motor Company, which built seaplanes for the U.S. Navy during World War I. Steamboats would transport agricultural goods and timber to New York markets. Even today, Keyport’s historic downtown reflects the town’s once vibrant fishing and shipping industries.