Story Behind the Photo: Oregon Inlet Lifesaving Station
Since I mentioned the beautiful light at sunset at the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge in my last post, it didn’t seem fair not to share a photo of it. Those familiar with the area will immediately recognize the historic US Coast Guard Oregon Inlet Life Saving Station and the Bonner Bridge in the background. The Herbert C. Bonner bridge connects Hatteras Island to the mainland and spans Oregon Inlet, a major waterway allowing access to the Atlantic Ocean for scores of fishermen. One of the first sights you see as you travel south on the Bonner Bridge towards Pea Island is the Life Saving Station. Built in 1888, the building was abandoned by the Coast Guard for a location on the north side of Oregon Inlet along the sound in 1988. The historic building sat vacant and in disrepair for twenty years before it was renovated in 2008 in spectacular fashion restoring it’s former beauty.
That is beautiful picture and a great story…..I may want that one for the column…
February 23, 2011 at 9:33 am
Absolutely! It’s always an honor to appear in Reflections by the Sea!
February 23, 2011 at 9:36 am
What a beautiful image. Glad to hear they’ve restored the building.
February 23, 2011 at 1:51 pm
Thanks! It was in desperate need and really does look fabulous now!
February 23, 2011 at 3:56 pm
Yeah, I like it.
February 23, 2011 at 5:09 pm
Thanks Jon!
February 23, 2011 at 5:14 pm
Standing “O” Elizabeth………. wow……………
February 24, 2011 at 8:58 am
Thanks!
February 24, 2011 at 3:53 pm
Lovely photo & story
February 24, 2011 at 12:52 pm
Thanks so much!
February 24, 2011 at 3:53 pm
Thanks for sharing. While serving in the USCG I was stationed at Oregon Inlet from 1953-54.
I have many memories and hope to tour since it has been restored.
July 26, 2011
July 26, 2011 at 9:03 am
Thank you for the kind words, Tommy! It’s an honor to “meet” someone who actually served at the station when it was fully functioning. It is quite beautiful now and I would imagine that you would love a tour. Thank you for your service!
July 26, 2011 at 8:49 pm