Historic Lifeboat Station Open House

Before the establishment of life-saving and lifeboat stations, the remains of vessels littered the beaches and the rocks along the United States coastline. Horrified spectators witnessed the drowning of passengers and crew, helpless to do anything.

It was not until 1871 that a coordinated government agency was established to aid distressed mariners. The United States Life-Saving Service (USLSS) provided hope for those whose fate was once sealed by pounding ocean waves and foreboding coastlines.

At the historic lifeboat station at Chimney Rock, you can visit a site where heroes of the California coast were housed. See the historic lifeboat, view exhibits, and experience 80 years of lifesaving history at Point Reyes. Hands-on interactive activities allow both children and adults to learn about seal and whale adaptations, and a special 30-minute slide program about elephant seals may be available, depending on staffing.