National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service: U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
 
 
Support the National Park Service
Cape Cod National SeashoreRanger-guided programs
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Cape Cod National Seashore
Old Harbor Life-Saving Station
undefined
Old Harbor Life-Saving Station, off Race Point, Provincetown

Old Harbor Life-Saving Station was built in Chatham in 1897. The station was operated by the U.S. Coast Guard, and its precurser the U.S. Life-Saving Service, until it was decommissioned in July 1944. The building was later obtained by the National Park Service, and in November 1977, it was moved by barge to Provincetown. In summer, breeches buoy rescue re-enactments are conducted on the grounds on Thursday evenings.

An Introduction to the United States Life-Saving Service
(.wmv file, 4:20 minutes)

Life and Service of a Surfman
(.wmv file, 3:39 minutes)
Three Sisters Lighthouses, Eastham  

Did You Know?
Because of coastal erosion of 3 feet a year, the sea has threatened historical landmarks over the years. A few examples of those moved back from the edge include the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station, the Three Sisters, Nauset, and Highland Lights, and the French Cable Hut.

Disclaimer Accessibility Privacy Policy FOIA Notices USA.gov

Last Updated: December 06, 2007 at 10:59 EST