The History of Content
Before there was Content + Co, there was simply Content.
Built as a summer cottage in 1882 by hotelier Charles Leland, the property was affectionately named Content—pronounced /kənˈtent/, meaning in a state of peaceful happiness.
On August 17, 1884, a The New York Times article previewing the upcoming New Jersey beach season described the unique property best:
"Another novelty in the way of a cottage is that just completed by Mr. Charles Leland, of the Ocean Hotel, which its artistic owner has appropriately christened 'Content.'
Mr. Leland, years ago, became familiar with the architecture of Cuban and Central American houses, and formed a liking for their system of building, with a courtyard in the center, and the four sides of the house surrounding it, and shutting it in from all the world.
Accordingly, when he determined to build a little snuggery for himself, where he could find relief from the bustle of life in the hotel, he selected a fine site on the shore of the Shrewsbury River a mile from the iron pier and built after his own plans."
The Next Chapter
In 2014, husband-and-wife duo John and Courtney Achilli bought the neglected historic property and began a massive restoration journey, documenting the entire process through their blog and Instagram photo journal. Today, Content + Co. is their way of sharing the cottage’s rich history while pursuing their lifelong creative passions.
During the first few years of ownership, John and Courtney were contacted by several individuals that helped shape the understanding of Content’s rich history. Through gifted documents, original deeds, correspondence and photographs, they constructed a timeline of prior ownership, property improvements and folklore, most scandalously that Content was once a working brothel. As imagined, evidence to back that claim is scarce.
Previously, Content was owned and adored by Harry and Lucy Wilson. Harry and Lucy operated the boat works directly on the water in the northern section of Long Branch along with Content which used to be located on the banks of the river.
Amongst friends, the pair were regarded for their warm hospitality. Notably, Lucy ran for public office while living at Content, and won, becoming the first woman ever elected to a city governing body in Long Branch. It was during this time, in the 1960s, that Content was split into three parts, and rolled to its current location on Atlantic Avenue.
*That’s Lucy above in the B&W photo on the front porch of Content.
Crafted by Hand, Designed by Heart
Completing all of the preservation work themselves, John and Courtney continually improve Content’s function and aesthetic every day:
John, a full-time master craftsman skilled in woodworking and construction, focuses his attention on the structural preservation of the home. His custom woodworking can be found throughout the property.
Courtney, after dedicating 10 years to the New York event planning industry, left her corporate career to focus on Content full-time. She has honed a signature design style inspired by her love of vintage décor and the couple’s shared love of nature.
A Place for Community
Driven by a passion for entertaining and homemaking, Courtney loves opening up the property to others—whether welcoming overnight guests, hosting film and photo production shoots at the house, or planning external events for clients.
Ultimately, Content is more than just a home. It is an opportunity for John and Courtney to support their family and the local community through creativity, relaxation, and celebration.
“As the current stewards of this historic property, we feel truly privileged.
We could not imagine keeping Content. to ourselves.”
- John & Courtney