Celebrating 150 Years of Spectacular Life-Saving History in Rodanthe, N.C.
RODANTHE, N.C. — This weekend, history enthusiasts, local residents, and visitors alike are coming together to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 150th anniversary of the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station. This historic site, which has been a beacon of safety and rescue along the South Atlantic coastline, first opened its doors back in 1874, paving the way for future life-saving stations across the United States.
A Legacy of Life-Saving
At the heart of this celebration is the storied past of the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station. As Larry Grubbs, president of the board of directors for the Chicamacomico Historical Association, points out, “This was the first station commissioned in the state of North Carolina.” Though plans for an initial station at Little Kinnakeet were derailed by construction mishaps, the Chicamacomico station stood strong and proud through the years.
The men and women who operated from this station were part of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, a precursor to today’s U.S. Coast Guard. These dedicated teams positioned along the Eastern seaboard and northern Great Lakes did not just focus on rescue operations; they were the pioneers of a standardized rescue service that is still in practice today. Grubbs explains how this standardization came about, stating, “In 1871, a gentleman named Sumner Kimball was placed in charge of it, and at that point, he introduced a lot of standardization.” This marked a significant turning point in the realm of lifesaving operations.
Rescue Techniques of the Past
One of the most fascinating aspects of the station’s history involves the use of a beach apparatus, which featured a small cannon that fired rescue lines out to distressed ships. “From 1874 until 1954, this means of rescue was used in the attempt to rescue 178,000 people, and they rescued 177,000,” Grubbs proudly shares.
The original structure, still standing in Rodanthe, has undergone numerous restoration efforts over the years to preserve its significance. It’s heartwarming to see that the local community has actively participated in keeping this historic site alive. Grubbs notes, “The folks from around here were the ones that came together with… folks with a taste for history… to help keep these buildings alive.” Community contributions have truly made the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station a treasured landmark.
Join the Celebration!
The 150th anniversary is not just a time for reflection; it’s also a chance for everyone to join in the festive spirit. This weekend, the Chicamacomico Historical Association is hosting a two-day event packed with exciting activities. Attendees will get to listen to narratives from historians who will shed more light on the station’s rich history. There’s also a re-enactment of the time-honored apparatus used for rescues, offering a glimpse into the life-saving techniques of a century ago.
In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to connect with first responders currently serving in the area, ensuring a bridge between the past and present. Grubbs sums it up nicely: “Chicamacomico’s mission is the preservation of the history, but also the preservation of these buildings. Chicamacomico is the most complete U.S. Life-Saving Service station site in the country.”
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
As we reflect on the past 150 years, it’s clear that the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station has played an indispensable role in protecting lives along the Outer Banks. It stands not only as a window to a bygone era but also as a living testament to the dedication of individuals who risk their lives for others. Join in the festivities this weekend and be part of a legacy that honors bravery and community spirit!
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
