Coastal Lookouts
The Lightship Overfalls
The Lewes Historical Society accepted from the U.S. Coast Guard in 1973 one of the last lightships which functioned on the East Coast. It stood for years off Boston and upon being brought to Lewes was rechristened Overfalls for the lightship which from 1892 to 1961 patrolled the entrance to the Delaware Bay. The ship's move to Lewes, its preparation for a museum role, and its relocation to a permanent berth made available by the city in 1975, have all been major undertakings overseen by the Overfalls Lightship Association.
The Overfalls lightship has a new website at www.overfalls.org and is now legally owned and operated by the non-profit organization, the Overfalls Maritime Museum Foundation, Inc. The Lewes Historical Society has officially transferred ownership. Visit their new website to learn about their exciting restoration project, how to contact them, and when to visit. Located on Pilottown Road, Lewes.
Delaware Lightship
Technically named the Delaware Bay Buoy, this modern sentinel stands off the mouth of the Delaware Bay as an automated version of work done for decades by Lightships such as the Overfalls - measuring tides, currents, weather conditions, as well as serving as a beacon. To local waterman it is still referred to as the Delaware Lightship.
Hotel Buoy
Farther out at sea a larger version of the Delaware Lightship is anchored.
World War II Observation Towers
Visitors to Delaware coast have long been aware of the tall concrete observation silos which dot the beaches. Used during the war as lookouts for Axis shipping and to triangulate their location for aiming 16 inch guns located in bunkers in the dunes. Guided tours of the observation towers and bunkers at Cape Henlopen are available to the public. There are other towers south of Dewey Beach, in Bethany Beach and in Fenwick Island.
Fort Saulsbury
Two even older Ordinance Bunkers were built during World War I just south of Slaughter Beach for coastal defense. At one time they housed two 12 inch guns emplacements. The guns were removed during World War II and the location was used as a prisoner of war camp. It was sold as surplus property in 1948 and is now in private hands.
The Indian River Life Saving Station Museum and Historic Site
Beautifully rebuilt and refurbished, this is one of only two stations of it's kind left. Route 1 just north of Indian river inlet. Tuesday through Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM dspf@splus.net (302)227-0478.
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Lighthouse Links
Delaware Lighthouses
Internet Index of Lighthouse Links
Chesapeake Chapter, U.S. Lighthouse Society
US Life-Saving Service Heritage Association
Towers of the Atlantic