Old Coast Guard Station Museum
Virginia Beach

Perched along the bustling boardwalk of Virginia Beach, the Old Coast Guard Station Museum stands as a testament to the rich maritime history of Virginia and the valiant efforts of the United States Lifesaving Service and Coast Guard. This charming museum, housed in a historic life-saving station, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past, where tales of shipwrecks, daring rescues, and coastal life come alive.

The History of the Old Coast Guard Station Museum

The origins of the Old Coast Guard Station Museum date back to 1878, when the first life-saving station was constructed in the area known as Seatack. The name Seatack is believed to have two possible origins: one attributing it to a local militia repelling a sea attack during the War of 1812, and the other suggesting it refers to the first sea tack or turn made by mariners after clearing Cape Henry. Regardless of its origin, the name has become synonymous with bravery and maritime heritage.

The station that now houses the museum was built in 1903, replacing the earlier structure. It served as a vital part of the United States Life-Saving Service, which later merged with the Revenue Cutter Service to form the United States Coast Guard. The museum honors this legacy by preserving and showcasing artifacts, stories, and exhibits that highlight the heroic efforts of the surfmen who patrolled the treacherous coastlines and rescued countless lives from shipwrecks.

Exploring the Museum

As you step into the Old Coast Guard Station Museum, you're transported back in time to an era when the call of duty meant braving stormy seas and relentless winds. The museum's exhibits are meticulously curated to provide an immersive experience, offering visitors a chance to learn about the history of the United States Life-Saving Service and the United States Coast Guard.

One of the museum's highlights is the collection of photographs and artifacts from various shipwrecks that occurred off the Virginia Beach coast. Among these is the story of the Norwegian ship Diktator, which wrecked near the Seatack Station in 1891. The surfmen's heroic rescue efforts, despite severe weather conditions, are vividly recounted, showcasing the bravery and determination of these unsung heroes.

The Revenue Cutter Service and United States Life-Saving Service

The museum also delves into the history of the Revenue Cutter Service, established in 1790 by Congress to collect custom duties from foreign ships. This service played a crucial role in the nation's early years, providing 92% of its income and protecting it during times of national security. In 1878, Congress passed a law joining the Revenue Cutter Service with the United States Life-Saving Service, enhancing their ability to assist shipwrecked individuals.

The United States Life-Saving Service, officially formed in 1871, grew under the leadership of Sumner Increase Kimball, who brought organization and standards to what was once a mostly volunteer organization. By 1889, there were 265 life-saving stations across the United States, each equipped with surfboats, apparatus carts, Lyle guns, and breeches buoys. The museum showcases these tools of the trade, offering visitors a glimpse into the challenging and often perilous work of the surfmen.

Life-Saving Stations and Their Equipment

The life-saving stations in the Virginia Beach area, including Cape Henry, Seatack, Dam Neck, Little Island, and False Cape, were strategically located two to five miles apart. The surfmen patrolled the beaches around the clock during the active season, which typically ran from October to March. Their duties included maintaining a vigilant watch for vessels in distress and conducting beach patrols, even in the harshest weather conditions.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the museum is the display of the apparatus cart and surfboat, which the surfmen used to reach shipwrecks. These carts, weighing over 1,400 pounds, were pulled through wet sand, gale-force winds, and high surf to render aid to shipwreck victims. Visitors can also learn about the use of the Lyle gun, which fired a line to stranded ships, and the breeches buoy, a life-saving device that transported victims from ship to shore.

The Seatack Station and the Wreck of the Diktator

The Seatack Station, now home to the Old Coast Guard Station Museum, has a storied history of its own. One of the most notable events associated with the station is the wreck of the Norwegian ship Diktator in 1891. The surfmen, led by Captain Drinkwater, faced severe weather conditions as they attempted to rescue the ship's crew. Despite multiple failed attempts with the Lyle gun, the surfmen's determination paid off when the crew of the Diktator managed to send a line to shore using a wooden cask. This allowed the surfmen to rig the breeches buoy and bring three crew members safely to the beach before nightfall.

The museum's exhibits include photographs, stories, and artifacts from the wreck of the Diktator and other shipwrecks, providing a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by mariners and the bravery of the surfmen who came to their aid.

Visiting the Old Coast Guard Station Museum

A visit to the Old Coast Guard Station Museum is a journey through time, offering a unique perspective on Virginia's maritime heritage and the heroic efforts of the United States Life-Saving Service and Coast Guard. The museum is open year-round, allowing visitors to explore its exhibits and learn about the history of the region's coastal communities, shipwrecks, and rescue missions.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a maritime buff, or simply looking for an engaging and educational experience, the Old Coast Guard Station Museum is a must-visit destination in Virginia Beach. Its captivating exhibits and stories of bravery and resilience will leave you with a deep appreciation for the men and women who dedicated their lives to saving others along the Atlantic coast.