The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station (CLSS) in Rodanthe is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.

As one of the seven original Life-Saving Stations built in North Carolina in 1874, it holds significant historical value. To commemorate this milestone, the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station and Historic Site will share stories about the seven 1874 Outer Banks stations. These stories will be featured in the months leading up to the official celebration in October.

A Heroic Rescue by Little Kinnakeet Life-Saving Station

On March 28, 1890, a coal-laden schooner, the William H. Keeney, ran aground near the Little Kinnakeet station. Keeper Edward O. Hooker alerted nearby stations Big Kinnakeet and Gull Shoal for help.

All three station crews quickly arrived at the scene. Despite initial difficulties with the rescue equipment, the crew successfully used the Lyle Gun to establish a line to the ship. A broken tailblock caused a temporary delay, but once replaced, all seven crew members were safely brought ashore.

The local residents also assisted in the rescue, battling strong winds and currents. The following day, the crews returned to retrieve the sailors’ belongings and other items from the vessel. Unfortunately, the Keeney was declared a total loss.

Captain Samuel Lippencott commended the station crew for their “prompt, cool, and courageous work” in rescuing the sailors and thanked them for their kindness.

Safe Harbor at Kitty Hawk Life-Saving Station

On March 11, 1896, the Kitty Hawk station provided refuge to seven fishermen forced from their camp by a storm. Keeper Samuel J. Payne supplied them with dry clothes from the Women’s National Relief Association. The fishermen stayed overnight until the weather improved and they could safely return to their camp.

For more historic tales and to learn about the 150th anniversary celebrations, visit the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station and Historic Site.