BOSTON LIGHTSHIP SET UP AS OVERFALLS

BOSTON LIGHTSHIP SET FOR LEWES EXHIBIT

AUGUST 12, 1973

The U. S. Coast Guard lightship “Boston” has arrived at Lewes harbor from Curtis

Bay Coast Guard Station, to be placed in a berth to exhibit to the public as a marine

museum of the Lewes Historical Society.

The ship that stood on station outside Boston Harbor and served as a light and fog

beacon to incoming vessels has been given to the local historic society with terms that it

be used as a public exhibit for at least ten years.

Built in 1939 , decommissioned in 1972, it is 'called' excellent condition with

original equipment in place, which will be placed in operative condition. It is 110 feet long,

25 foot broad, and has a draw of 11 feet of water.

It will be renamed “ Overfalls” for the lightship that rode off Lewes Harbor until

1961. The original “Overfalls” is on exhibit at the Portsmouth , Virginia Coast Guard

Museum.

The fog horn, heard for at least 7 miles will be demonstrated on occasion. The

'galley' is in complete operational condition. Two large original anchors, 5000 pounds

each, and kept the vessel on station are in place on the ships bow for viewing.

Since it takes a very high tide to float the ship for final placement, no date has been

set for an official opening at this time.

Abstract by Harrison H, May 28, 2018 from Salisbury Daily Times, Sunday,

August 12, 1973.