 The Tillie mural from the old Palace Amusements building is peeling away in a shed near the Asbury Park boardwalk. Andre Malok | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
The public hasn’t seen the original Tillie, the unofficial mascot of Asbury Park, in 17 years — until now. Our journalists reveal the story of a fading Jersey Shore icon.
NJ.com's Natalie Paterson, Alex Napoliello and Andre Malok got an exclusive look inside the wooden shed where Tillie is slowly falling to pieces. Paint peels from his once-vibrant blue eyes and famous grin, as the mural deteriorates behind the wastewater treatment plant near the Asbury Park boardwalk.
Tillie spent decades decorating the side of the old Palace Amusements building, and was salvaged before the structure was demolished in 2004. A cutout of the mural and other Palace artifacts have been locked away in storage ever since.
Asbury Park's original Tillie is turning 65 this year and, unfortunately, will spend his birthday hidden from the public. But Tillie can still be saved. And a group of loyal Bruce Springsteen fans — appropriately named Save Tillie — helps us understand how.
Get the full story and must-see video, only on NJ.com.
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