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Posts Tagged ‘Indian River Life Saving Station’

March 14th, 2012

What’s Going On?, Bethany Beach, Terrapin Naming Contest, Parlour Theatre, 5K/10K Run, Delaware Beaches

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Winter is a quiet time in on the “Quiet Resort” at the Delaware Beaches.  I am talking about the town of Bethany Beach.  But, slowly spring will be bringing more visitors to Bethany and the surrounding areas.  Here are a few happenings.

Terrapin Naming Contest – Tomorrow, Thursday, March 15th, is the last day for this contest.  The Indian River Life-Saving Station is located on Rt. 1 or Coastal Highway, a few miles north of Bethany Beach after going over the Indian River Bridge.  The contest has been going on for the past month, but deadline is tomorrow to pick names for their newest residents to the Life-Saving Station; Diamondback Terrapins!!

These terrapins were rescued an unable to be released into the wild.  They, now, have a permanent home with them, to be used for educational programs and the enjoyment of visitors.

Two ways to cast ballots:  You can stop in at and cast a paper ballot or submit suggestions on Facebook at www.facebook/IRLSS under their Events tab.  You can submit up to 2 suggestions per terrapin.

Prize?  Always a prize!  Winners will be selected on Wednesday, March 21st and receive an Annual Park Pass and a gift bag of goodies.  You’ll also get your picture with the terrapin, in you would like.

The Indian River Life Saving Station was built in 1876 and is the only Station in Delaware that is still standing in its original location.  I wrote a post with pictures on August 29, 2010.  Just click on the month of August of 2010, on the left hand side of my website and scroll down to the 29th.

More info?  Call 302-227-6991

Dickens Parlour Theatre – There is Magic at the Beach on Friday, March 16th.  This theatre is located at 35715 Atlantic Ave. in Millville, Delaware.  It is just about 5 minutes west of Bethany Beach, on Rt. 26.  Please visit www.DPTmagic.com. Call for tickets at 302-829-1071.  During the summer there will be nightly shows and even rainy day shows.  Even though I have not attended a performance, it has been highly recommended.  The website has a full schedule and impressive bios of all performers.  Admission:  Adults $18, Ages 12 and under $12.

Bunny Palooza – 5K/10K Race – Register now for this race sponsored by the Seashore Striders.  Saturday, April 7th at 8 a.m.  Website? www.bunnypaloozarun.com.  Highlights?  Chip-timed Race, Overall & Age Group Awards, Fun, Festive Course with Live Music.  New Balance Tech Shirts to all pre-registered runners, goody bag at packet pick-up, Bunny Palooza Finisher Medals for the 10K participants, Post Race Party at Mango’s.

The race will finish at the Oceanfront on the Bethany Beach Boardwalk.  Walkers, strollers and dogs are welcomed on the 5K Course.

For sponsorship opportunities or additional info., please contact them at info@bunnypaloozarun.com.

Note:  You can find them on Facebook as Bunny Palooza 5k/10k Run & Walk.

Have a great day!!  Talk to you later…

Comments Off on What’s Going On?, Bethany Beach, Terrapin Naming Contest, Parlour Theatre, 5K/10K Run, Delaware Beaches

September 21st, 2011

Arts, Entertainment, Delaware Beaches, What’s Going On?, Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach

 

I was just thinking how many visitors are still enjoying the Delaware Beaches.  Well, it is still fairly warm so you can shop, walk, bike and dine until you drop.  And, soon those meters will be put to sleep.

The Delaware Beaches have been doing such a great job in order to keep everyone coming back.  Festivals, arts and entertainment, at the heart of it all.

Here is what’s going on….

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Thursday, 9/22 – At the Indian River Life-Saving Station, Rt. 1, 3 1/2 miles south of Dewey Beach, Brown Box Theatre Project will be presenting Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” at 6:00 p.m.  It is FREE.  It will take place in the courtyard.  Why don’t you bring your blankets, just in case. 

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Note:  You can pre-order a boxed dinner from Matt’s Fish Camp and enjoy it during the performance.  I can vouche for its food.  Great!!

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For more info. on the performance or if you would like to order a dinner from Matt’s Fish Camp, please call Indian River Live Saving Station at 302-227-6991.

 

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Que Pasa en Dewey Beach?  Mucho…. Dewey Beach is the coastal town where you can find the best music venues….So, it is the perfect place to hold, from Thursday, 9/22 until Saturday, 9/24 the Dewey Beach Music Conference.  It will be a various venues in Dewey.  The best way to get that info. is to visit http://www.deweybeachfest.com.  Plenty of opportunities to work at furthering your music future.  Or, enjoy the many performances.

 

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Friday, 9/23 – The beautiful Historic Town of Lewes is going to be having such a fun day on Friday.  An All Day Italian Festival from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.  Specialty shops in town will be offering Italian-themed merchandise and even some Italian refreshments.  More Info.?  Please visit www.leweschamber.com.

 

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Friday, 9/23 –   In Rehoboth Beach, it is Opening Night for “Broadway Rhythms” with a Gala and A Night “On the Town” Party.  Appetizers and drinks at Clear Space Theatre located at 20 Baltimore Ave., plus a chance to bid on silent auction items.

Dinner at some of the most sought after eateries in town and then on to a show from the Great White Way.  Festivities will start at 5:00 p.m.  Tickets are $100.  More info?  Please call 302-227-2270 or visit www.clearspacetheatre.org.

Please note that this is the opening night and you can find the rest of the schedule on the website above mentioned.

 

Friday, 9/23 – Thursday, 10/6 – Philip Morton Gallery presents new works by William Dunlop.  The Gallery is located at 47 Baltimore Ave.  A reception to meet the artist will be on Friday, 9/23 from 6 – 9 p.m.  His paintings are abstract in nature and minimalist in tone.  More info?  Please call 302-727-0905.  To preview the collection, please visit www.philipmortongallery.com.  

 

Friday, 9/23 – Presented by the Rehoboth Film Society as part of their Monthly Screening Series is “In a Better World”  winner of the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.  At 7 p.m. in the upstairs screening room at Movies at Midway.  Members $3, non-members $5. 

Monthly screenings feature films and discussions about various cultures in the world, including the diversity in our own country. 

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Note:  The Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival will start on November 9th until November 13th.

For complete information, please call 302-645-9095 or visit www.rehobothfilm.com.

 

For the Kids:

Saturday, 9/24 – It is the 11th Annual Children’s Fun Fest presented by the Beebe Medical Center Auxiliary.  It will be at Windswept Stables located on Rt. 24 (Lewes).  Free admission, but some rides do require tickets, which are available for purchase at the event.

There will be games, horse shows, pony rides, food, baked goods and even a petting zoo. 

 

I think this is a full week-end ahead.  Have a great time.  Officially, Fall starts on Friday!!

Comments Off on Arts, Entertainment, Delaware Beaches, What’s Going On?, Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach

July 29th, 2011

Delaware Seashore State Park, Seafood & Arts Festival, Saturday, Maritime Heritage Festival, Sunday, Delaware Beaches

 

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6 miles of ocean and bay shoreline, swimming and sunbathing, surfing and sailboarding, and so much more.  Sounds good, doesn’t it?  If you are visiting the Delaware Beaches this week-end, well, it is going to be hot and muggy.  But, the following two events might be something you might want to check out.  Both are on the water so it will definitely be cooler.  If you have your friends and family visiting then I would drag them to it.  Something different.

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Saturday, July 30th, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. is the Seafood & Arts Festival.  It is free!!  It will be at the Indian River Marina.  There will be live music, fresh seafood and platters, family fun and Lollipop the Clown will be there, as well.

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You can call 302-227-3071 if you need more info. or visit www.destateparks.com.

The marina looks beautiful.  I had the opportunity to visit a few weeks ago, and was completely impressed by it.  My husband stops for breakfast once in a while.  You cannot beat the scenery!!

There is a lot of construction right by the Inlet, but the marina will be just north of the bridge.  There will be plenty of signs for the festival.

 

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On Sunday, July 31st, is the Maritime Heritage Festival at the Indian River Life Saving Museum from Noon until 5 p.m.  Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for ages 4 to 12, 3 years and under are free.

This museum is gorgeous and definitely worth seeing.  In one of my posts, I remember writing that for so many years I used to drive by it; would glance and never gave it another thought.  Well, that completely has changed.  It’s worth visiting; learnig about the life of the people that looked after our coast.

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Therefore, on Sunday it will be a day of entertainment, crafts, games and food for the whole family. 

The Delaware Seashore State Park is celebrating Delaware’s Maritime Heritage.  For more info., please call 302-227-6991.  You can also visit www.destateparks.com.

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The schedule for Sunday is as follows:

At 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. – Songs and stories of old sailing days by Matthew Dodd.

At 2 p.m. – Breeches Buoy Demonstration.

There will be maritime crafts and games.  Also, tours of the Life Saving Station and Sailor Tattoo Face Painting.

 

Enjoy the beach; kick back and relax!!

Note:  I wrote a post on the Indian River Life Saving Station Museum on 8/29/10.  If you would like to see it just click on the month of August, 2010 and scroll down to the date.

You wil not be able to miss the museum, it is just north of the inlet.

Talk to you later…

Comments Off on Delaware Seashore State Park, Seafood & Arts Festival, Saturday, Maritime Heritage Festival, Sunday, Delaware Beaches

July 19th, 2011

What’s Happening?, Rehoboth Beach, Activities, Events, Arts, Entertainment, Delaware State Park Activities, Delaware Beaches

 

I sat last night quietly at my kitchen table.  I was thinking how quickly the summer is going by.  We waited for it throughout the long winter; then, we complain about being too hot, too many people, traffic jams.  Are we ever happy, I ask?  I do all those things myself.  It was about 10:00 p.m. and everything was so still.  I could hear the sounds of critters outside and the sprinklers going off on the golf course. 

I did not go into downtown Rehoboth yesterday; don’t know how busy it was.  A lady told me that she did not think this week was busy.  Wrong again.  It really was, but it was such a gorgeous week that they were all at the water’s edge.

If you are enjoying Rehoboth this week, then these might be of interest to you.

 

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The Delaware State Parks offer so much activity throughout the State of Delaware.  Right down the road on Rt. 1 and just north of the Indian River Bridge is the Indian River Life Saving Station.  The following activities will meet there.  These activities showcase our inland bays.  Please remember that these are outdoor activities so watch for the weather and give them a call to 302-227-6991 with any questions you may have.

 

Wednesdays through Saturdays and until August 20th – At 9:30 a.m.  Enjoy the Delaware’s Inland Bay ecosystem on a sit-on-top kayak.  Participants will receive basic kayaking instruction an all equipment.  You should bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of drinking water.  It takes about 2 hours.  Prepare to get wet.  Pre-registration is required by calling 302-227-6991.  Meet at the Indian River Life Saving Station just north of the Indian River Bridge.  The cost is $30.

 

Wednesdays through Saturdays and until August 27th – Seining the Bay at 1:30 p.m.  Pull a seine net through calm shallow water to catch fish, crabs, and other critters that call the Inland Bays “home”.  Learn to identify each species and learn about each critter’s adaptations and strategies for survival.  Closed-toe shoes are required.  Pre-register by calling 302-227-6991.  The cost?  $4/person.

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Thursdays and until August 18th – 10 a.m. until noon is the Estuary Ecology Boat Tour –  Participants of all ages will help perform simple water quality tests, identify aquatic plants and animals, look for birds and learn what role humans play in the ecology of our coastal waterways.  $20/person and pre-registration is a requirement.  Call 302-227-6991.  Remember that you are to meet at the Indian River Life Saving Station located just north of the Indian River Bridge.

 

Thursdays and until August 18th is the Rehoboth Bay Sightseeig Boat Tour from 1 to 2:30 p.m.  Sit back and relax and enjoy a tour of Rehoboth Bay from the water.  See the local landmarks, wildlife and learn about the past and present human connections to the area.  For all ages.  You need to register by calling 302-227-6991 and the cost is $18.  Meet at the Indian River Life Saving Station just north of the Indian River Bridge.

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Fridays and until August 19th at 8:30 p.m. – Ghost Crab Saunter.  A nightime walk along the beach searching for the elusive Ghost Crab.  Bring a flashlight to help you spot them as they scurry from side to side looking for their evening’s meal.  Meet at the Indian River Live Saving Station, just north of the Indian River Bridge.  More info?  Call 302-227-6991.

 

Fridays only in July – There are 5 shops at 33 Baltimore Avenue.  These shops will be having an Open House on those Friday evenings from 5 – 8 p.m.  It is a benefit for Red Cross.  For specials offered by the stores please visit:  Touch of Italy (www.touchofitalylewes.com), Shademakers Eyewear (www.visioncenter.com), Crysti (www.cristy-rehoboth.com), Elegant Slumming (www.elegantslumming.com) and Beach Essentials.

 

Friday, 7/22  and until 8/22 is the Rehoboth Art League’s Fine Art Exhibit.  For more information please visit www.rehobothartleague.org or call302-227-8408.

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Saturday, 7/23 – I met Ivana some months ago and she wears many hats in her daily routine.  She is also an artist whose specialty is mixed media.  An opportunity to see her work and the work of other local artists will be at Echelon Design Center at 20184 Phillip St. in Rehoboth Beach.  You know where it is, right by Big Fish Grill.  The name of the exhibit is Spectacle. 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.  It is a Free event!!  You can access their website, www.spectacleartshow.com and see the artists who will be participating. 

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Schools in general need art supplies but in some Sussex County schools the budget has been reduced to $2 per child, per year.  That’s where Spectacle comes in.  To counter this need, art supplies collected during the event will be donated to local schools in need, along with a portion of all sponsorship funds.

The art supplies wishlist is:

Acrylic/tempra paint (especially, gold and silver), big erasers, chalk pastels, clay tools, clear rulers, colored pencils like Crayola, glue sticks, letter stencils, Michaels Gift cards, oil pastels, paint brushes, scissors, sharpies!!, spray mount, and watercolor paper.

 

Until August 7th – Art Exhibit at AerieArt Gallery located at 45 1/2 Lake Avenue, Rehoboth Beach.  Tel. 302-227-5376.  “The Three Professors”, James Hill is a sculptur, Jinchul Kim and Paul Flexner are painters, and all of them teach at Salisbury University’s Art Dept. in Salisbury, Maryland.  AerieArt Gallery opens from 10 to 5 p.m., daily, except Tuesdays.

 

Live Theatre in Rehoboth Beach is brought to all of us by Clear Space Theatre Co. at the Clear Space Theatre on 20 Baltimore Ave. in Rehoboth Beach.  Visit www.clearspacetheatre.com for complete details because the shows rotate throughout the summer.  They are 100 Years of Broadway, Words & Music: By Gershwin, and “Chicago”.  Performances begin at 7 p.m.  Tickets can be obtained at the box office or visit the above website for more information.

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Saturday, Augutst 6th  –  Mark your calendars – Discount Vaccination & Vet Day at Doggies at the Beach – 9 a.m. until Noon.  It is on a first come first serve basis.  Doogies at the Beach is located at 18806 John J. William Highway (Rt. 24) in Rehoboth.  Website?  www.doggiesatthebeach.com.  Tel? 302-644-8200   They are on Facebook; check them out and Like their news and dog pictures.

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Have a great day at the beach……relax!!

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December 18th, 2010

Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Delaware Beaches, Holiday Activities, Events, 12/18/10 – 12/21/10

 

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I hope this information is not too late because some of the activities this week-end and next Tuesday are the types that will let you relax at this time of the year.  And, yes some you will have to dress for the weather.  Nevertheless, it is nice to get outside and forget about the malls, outlets, you know, the Christmas rush.  A couple of them, well, are Holiday activities.

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Lewes, Delaware

Saturday and Sunday, 12/18 and 12/19 – The Nutcracker by Sussex Ballet at the Cape Henlopen High School, Lewes.  Saturday’s performance will be at 7 p.m. and Sunday’s performance will be at 1 p.m.  General admission is $16 but for seniors and children under the age of 12, it will be $12.  For mor info. please call 302-645-7855.

 

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Tuesday, 12/21 – Full Moon Hike at the Cape Henlopen State Park.  Dress for the outdoors.  It is limited to 20 people.  $2/person.  Pre-registration is required by calling 302-6852.  If you have never been to the Cape Henlopen State Park, and are in the area, then this could be your opportunity to go during a most unique time of the year.

 

Rehoboth Beach

Saturday, 12/18 – Family Day at the Movies – Movies at Midway, Beebe Medical Center will purchase children’s tickets.  Parents’ tickets are $3.00 and must be purchased at the door.  Movies begin at 10:00 a.m. but the doors will open at 9:00 a.m.  Call 302-645-3468 or visit www.beebemed.org.

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Saturday, 12/18 – Santa Visits Rehoboth Mall on Rt. 1 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. (lunch from 12 – 1).  Children who donate canned food or non-perishable items, toiletries or barely worn items of clothing will have the chance to meet Santa and receive a gift in return.  Call 302-645-6655 for info.  All donations will go to local charities.

 

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Saturday, 12/18 – Lantern Tour of Indian River Life Saving Station at 7 p.m.  It is located on Rt. 1 South of Dewey Beach just before you get to the Indian River Bridge, on the left hand side.  It is $10 per person and pre-registration is required by calling 302-227-6991.  Learn about ship wrecks, surfmen’s duties and the changing Delaware coast over time.  Definitely, dress for the weather.  One of my favorite places in the area.

 

Sunday, 12/19 – Learn to make Monkey Fists Key Chains at the Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum on Rt. 1, south of Dewey Beach, before you get to the Indian River Bridge.  12:30 to 2:00 p.m. $10.00 will cover materials and instruction.  Giving monkey fists to friends is an old fashioned way of showing how much they mean to the giver because monkey fists are thought to ward off evil.  For more info. and registration call 302-227-6991.

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Sunday, 12/19 – At the Indian River Life Saving Station Museum is Edible Plants of the Seashore.  It is $6.00 and for more details please call 302-227-6991.

 

Have a great week-end….wherever you are….

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August 29th, 2010

Indian River Life-Saving Station, Historic, South of Dewey Beach, North of the Indian River Inlet Bridge, Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation, Delaware Beaches

 

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Before I even start with the actual post for my blog, and being that a blog is a person’s diary, I have to tell you that yesterday, Saturday, was the most beautiful day in the Delmarva Peninsula.  The beach was awsome.

Three of us sat at the beach in Fenwick Island for hours.  The amazing part of it was the varied topics of conversation.  From catch up with the happenings in our own families to up to the last minute political thoughts.  Dave, Debbie and I were non-stop talking, moving our chairs as the sun shifted. 

We stopped for a minute and we all agreed how lucky we are to live where we live.  Everything is pretty much accessible within minutes.  Having the ocean, the bay and the marshes at our fingertips is priceless.

 

I am ready for my post now.

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Last year when I wrote about the Historic Indian River Life-Saving Station I mentioned that up and down Coastal Highway I went, for so many years, not even giving this historic site a thought.  Yes, I looked and kept on going.

It was not until I stopped to check it out that I realized that I have lived in this area so long and still don’t know a lot about it.  This blog is giving me that opportunity.  My friends say they have learned a lot, as well.  They are nice, aren’t they?

The Indian River Life Saving Station was built in 1876, and is the only station in Delaware that is still standing in its original location.

Can you imagine?  Each year, from September through April, 6 surfmen, as they were called, and a keeper lived at the station.  They patrolled our desolate and dangerous Delaware beaches every night, all night long, looking for shipwrecks and warning other vessels of the imminient dangers along our coastline from 1876 until 1915.

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Surfmen had to rely on barometers to predict the weather.  A barometer is an instrument that measures atmospheric pressures.

The Historic Indian River Life-Saving Station is located on Route 1, 3 miles south of Dewey Beach, or one mile north of the Indian River Inlet Bridge.

The Station is part of the Delaware Seashore State Park and besides the museum, there is also a shop and it is one of the offices where you can purchase Delaware State Park permits.  The telephone is 302-227-6991.

On this visit I decided to sit and view a video of the museum and its history.  The cost for entering the museum is $4.00.  There is an audio tour that will allow you to move about the museum at your own pace, using your cell phone.  Otherwise, you can just walk it; it is very well marked.

The Delaware Seashore Preservation Foundation restored the building in the late 1990’s.  Then assumed resposibility for it in 2004.

The building appears much as it did in 1905.  Apparently, when the Station was built, it was 400 feet closer to the ocean; later moved to its current location because of the battles with sand drifting and blowing around the station.

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As I came in the first room I saw was what they called the Mess Room and the table, in those times, was always set.  The Surfmen’s motto was “You have to go out, but you don’t have to come back”.  With the table set, the surfmen knew there was a place waiting for them when they returned from the beach.

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The pantry was simple.  It also contained medicinal remedies like syrup of ipecac, castor oil and powder borax.

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In the display, there were surfmen’s checks, patrol clocks and flares that would warn ships that they were too close to shore.

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The U.S. flag flew over the station.  This particular flag has 38 stars and was the offical flag of the U.S. from 1877 until 1890.

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The surfboat located in this room dates from the 1930’s.  There is another boat outside and very faintly it had the name of John N. Bowers, but I don’t have any info. on that one.  The surfmen dragged the surfboat onto the beach and row to the shipwreck. 

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If you noticed on the picture the surfmen were wearing “cork vests”.  These were the predecessors to the modern day “personal flotation devices”.

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There was one keeper of the Station and the desk is similar to the one used by Washington Vickers, who was the keeper of this Station from 1883 until 1907.

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The keeper of the Station was definitely, in charge, and responsible for rescues, leading drills and maintaining the daily log.

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The flags were used for International Signal Code.  Each flag represents a number or a letter.  Showing different combination of flags allowed the surfmen to signal short messages to other stations or nearby ships.

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There were stairs leading to the cupola but not accessible to the public.  The surfmen stood watch 24 hours a day; the guard on duty was able to keep watch on the surfmen as they patrolled the beach.

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The sleeping quarters were small and each of the men kept a small trunk for his personal belongings.

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The Station is not big; it is a simple and beautiful building.  It is worth visiting if you are in the area.  If you live here, stop and take a look.  It does not take long.

I could not help to notice a roster of those surfmen.  Some of the prominent names in Sussex County were Burton, Cropper, Evans, Hazzard, Hickman, Hitchens, Lingo, Magee, Marvel, Massey, McCabe, Palmer, Quillen and many others.  Their names are there and one might be your relative.

The Life Saving Station has the availability to be rented for events.  For more information, please call Christine Gulbronson who is the Retail Sales and Events Coordinator.  Tel. 302-227-6991.  e-mail christine.gulbronson@state.de.us.  You can also check the website www.destateparks.com.

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Have a great day!!  Another beautiful day in the Delmarva Peninsula…

Note:  Information for my post was taken from the brochure of the Indian River Life-Saving Station.

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April 22nd, 2010

Indian River Life Saving Station, Delaware State Parks, Recreation, Activities, Delaware Beaches, Spring Programs

 

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When I wrote last year about the Indian River Life-Saving Station I mentioned that for so many years I drove past it, back and forth, and never gave it another thought.  No more of that.  Every time I drive on Rt. 1, I love the way it looks.  They have done a great job in its restoration.  It is the only station in Delaware that is still standing in its original location.

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These stations were placed throughout the coastline to help rescue sailors from shipwrecks.  There was a keeper and a crew called “surfmen”.  They worked during the stormy season of September through April.

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The station is located on Rt. 1, 3 miles south of Dewey Beach or one mile north of the Indian River Inlet Bridge.  It also serves as the Park Office for the Delaware Seashore State Park.  Tel. is 302-227-6991 and the website is www.destateparks.com.  If you are on vacation, this is the perfect place to get acquainted with the area.  It has a shop and plenty of brochures of what they are offering our visitors, and us, residents, as well.

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Up and down the coastaline of southern Delaware the beaches are taken care by the Delaware State Parks.  Some of the beaches have bath houses and concession stands.

Bath House, Tower Rd., Dewey Beach

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Beach, Tower Rd., Dewey Beach

Beach, Tower Rd., Dewey Beach

Beach, Tower Rd., Dewey Beach

Beach, Tower Rd., Dewey Beach

Many programs are offered through the State Parks.  They are still in their Spring Program mode and these are a few of the programs available until the end of May:

Saturday, April 24th – 5th Annual Earth Day Beach Clean-Up at Fenwick Island State Park from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.  This is a pre-season clean-up at the Delaware State Park’s “quiet beach”.  Meet at the parking lot of the main beach Bath House at the south end of Fenwick Island State Park, just north of the Bethany Fenwick Chamber of Commerce Building.  All materials needed will be supplied.  Please come dressed for the weather.  The clean-up is open to all, but we ask that groups of 10 or more call (302) 227-6991 ahead to make sure we have enough supplies on hand.

I think I did this clean-up years ago with my son and some friends; I think I cleaned up more than they did.

 

Friday, April 30th – Arbor Day Tree Tales Hike at 2:00 p.m. – Meet at Holts Landing parking lot for a hike to celebrate Arbor Day.  Learn about the different kinds of trees found along the 1.7 mile Sea Hawk Trail.  Find out how to identify various tree species, and learn about their traditional uses and forest folklore.  Call 302-227-6991 for directions and more info.  It is free.

Holts Landing is undiscovered.  It is a 203 acre area that contains a variety of beautiful landscapes, from bay shore beach to grassy fields and hardwood forests.  The shores of the inland bays were home to native Americans.

Holts Landing was a small family farm.  The family sold the property to the state highway department in 1957 and then in 1965 the first parcel of land was transferred to the State Park Commission.  It is home to the only pier on Delaware’s Inland Bay that was built specifically for crabbing.  It is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset.

 

Saturday, May 1st – Hike the Sea Hawk Trail – Holts Landing State Park parking lot.  1.7 mile trail.  Learn the history of the park, and find out about the Indian River Bay and the Assawoman Canal.  This trail is part of Delaware State Park’s Trail Challenge Program.  Call 302-227-6991 for directions and information.  It is free.

 

Saturday, May 1st – Burton Island Interpretive Trail Hike – 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.  Join park naturalists for a guided walk around the upland areas of the island and access wide expanses of salt marsh on the new state of the art boardwalks.  This is a State Nature Preserve and visitors will see a rich variety of trees, plants, and wildlife, as well as traces of man’s past inhabitations and influence on the land.  Pre-register by calling 302-227-6991.  The cost is $4/person.

Don’t know what Burton’s Island is?  It is the largest island in an archipelago of small islands that separates Rehoboth Bay from Indian River Bay.  It is just behind the barrier beach of Delaware Seashore State Park.  It is an easy 1.5 mile walk around the island and it has great views of inland bays and close-up observations of the creatures of salt marsh and upland forest.  Bring binoculars for birding and insect repellent during the summer.

 

Saturday, May 8th – Sailor Valentines – 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.  In the 1800s, sailors spent months away from home.  To fill their down time, they would create “valentines” with a mosaic of tropical seashells mounted in a wooden frame or box.  Recreate this old tradition using shells and items found on our local beaches and make a true keepsake valentine.  Pre register by calling 302-227-6991.  $15/person (includes materials and instruction)

 

Tuesday, May 4th (10-1 p.m.), Sunday, May 9th (10-1 p.m.) and Friday, May 21st (11-2 p.m.) – Introduction to Surf Fishing – One of the most popular pastimes on our coast.  Beginners will get a foundation in this relaxing sport, and those who want to dust off their old equipment will get a refresher.  The program will cover tackle and baits to use, current rules and regulations, fish identification and an opportunity to catch (and release) a big one!!  You must be at least 10 years old and if under 16 then you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  The cost for the class includes the use of spinning rod and reel combos, tackle and bait.  You will also receive a comprehensive handout of the topics covered to keep in the tackle box.  Meet at the Indian River Life-Saving Station.  Size is limited and pre-registration is required by calling 302-227-6991.  $25/person.

 

Saturdays, May 8th and May 22nd –  10:00 – Noon – A lot of us like to drive on Delaware State Parks’ surf-fishing beaches.  This is a class that will cover the basics of safe and courteous driving.  It will also cover park rules, licensing and equipment rerquirements as well as tips and tricks from veteran surf-fishermen and Delaware State Parks staff.  Afterward, participants with a valid DE State Parks surf-fishing tag on their vehicles can head out to the beach with guidance to practice the day’s lessons.  Meet at the Indian River Life-Saving Station.  No pre-registration is required.  $5/person.

 

Friday, May 14th – Stargazing at the Seashore – 8:30 – 10:00 p.m.  Learn to navigate around the night sky and hear some of the ancient stories about the constellations.  A telescope, star maps, and binoculars will be provided.  Feel free to bring your own blanket and pillow as this is the only park program you can enjoy lying down!!!  Please do not bring a flashlight.  Meet at the Indian River Life-Saving Station.  Call 302-227-6991 to pre-register no later than 4 p.m. on the day of the program.  $5/person.

 

Saturday, May 15th and Saturday, May 29th – Turks-Head Knot Bracelets.  1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.  Make your own rope bracelet.  These woven rope bracelets have been worn by mariners for ages including the surfmen of the U.S. Life-Saving Service.  A rescuer could hook the bracelet and haul victims aboard or ashore to safety should they accidently land in the water.  The rope and instruction will be provided.  You must be a t least 12 years of age.  Space is limited.  Pre-register by calling 302-227-6991.  $7.50/person includes materials and instruction.

 

Sunday, May 30th – Squid Dissection:  From Pen to Ink!!  10:30 a.m. unitl Noon.  Study one of the most specialized squishy creatures of the sea!!  Dissect a squid of your own and learn about their unique adaptations for survival.  At the end of the program, we will cook up our study specimens and enjoy them as the treat known as calamari!!  The fee is $8/person.  Suitable for ages 8 and up.  Space and materials are limited so please pre-register by calling 302-227-6991.

 

When I see all of these outdoor programs available, there is no reason to be a couch potato!!  Have a great day!!  And, talk to you later….

Note:  Information for this post was taken from the Delaware Seashore State Park Program Guide, www.trails.com, www.destateparks.com.

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