Did you know there is a historic lightship right in Lewes? Chances are you’ve seen the bright red boat, but if you walk right past it, you’re missing out on a fascinating piece of history. For decades, lightships patrolled the coasts of America, doing work where lighthouses could not. The Lightship Overfalls, docked in Lewes, is one of the few remaining ships open for public tours.

Overfalls was built in 1938 and served in Connecticut and Massachusetts until she was damaged in a storm and decommissioned in 1972.
Wikimedia Commons
She was the last ship built for the United States Lighthouse Service, which became the Coast Guard in 1939. Now, Overfalls is one of only 17 surviving ships, and one of the only ones open for public tours.
After a lengthy restoration away from port last year, she's back and better than ever, ready to take you on a journey back through time.
Facebook / Lightship Overfalls Foundation
You can take a tour and learn all about the history of the Lifesaving Service, Lightship Fleet, and the formation of the Coast Guard.

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 Tour The Landmark Delaware Lighthouse That's Only Accessible By Boat

Tour The Landmark Delaware Lighthouse That's Only Accessible By Boat
You'll learn all about this incredible, one-of-a-kind ship and how she was built using a brand new hull design, right before the Lightship project was delayed.
Facebook / Overfalls Lightship
Overfalls was one of the only Lightships to serve during World War II, too! What a fascinating piece of history we have docked in Lewes.
Start planning your summer beach trip now and be sure Overfalls makes the agenda!
Facebook / Lightship Overfalls Foundation
The ship is open 6 days a week (closed Wednesdays) from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tours cost just $5 for adults, and they're free for children under 14 years of age. The Lightship Overfalls is located at 219 Pilottown Road, Lewes, DE.

Get more information about this fascinating piece of history on its Facebook page.

Have you visited the Lightship Overfalls in Lewes? Make it a point to stop by when you’re in The Tiny Beach Town In Delaware That’s The Perfect Day Trip Destination.

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