Our purpose is to restore, preserve, protect, educate and interpret the rich history of these valiant men and their dedication to the U.S. Life Saving Service, as well as interpreting the history of the buildings and artifacts. We are open to the public from mid-April through November, and provide our visitors with tours, programs, reenactments and special events.

Historic Buildings Are Being Moved 02.16.05
Four out-buildings and one water tank located on the grounds of Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station are in the process of being moved, which will result in two separate historic districts. The small boathouse, the tractor shed, and the horse stable will be moved closer to the 1911 Station; the 1874 cookhouse and water tank will be relocated adjacent to the 1874 Station. These changes will help recreate a more historically accurate site. "What we're trying to do is make Chicamacomico a living history site. And to do that, we have to move the buildings to where they ought to be", said Ken Wenberg, Executive Director. As a bonus, a 1907 house with strong ties to Chicamacomico was donated by Midgett Realty, and funds to move the structure were donated by Bette Gray and Trish Midgett. Once it is relocated to the site, interpretation of early life on Hatteras Island can take place. It’s not often that historical structures are relocated (remember the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse move in 1999?) and excitement is running high this project continues. The relocation began on Feb. 9, 2005 and should be completed by Feb. 21, 2005.

We're SO THRILLED to be finally moving the buildings! Although it's taking a little longer than expected (lots of over wash, soggy grounds, etc.) the move is underway!

The 1907 Palmer Midgett house is still in its original location...for about 4-7 days longer. Just south of the Water Treatment facility (next door to Chicamacomico - south side), on the ocean side. Two stories, 3 bedrooms. A wonderful example of early 1900's architecture on Hatteras, with some original furnishings inside.

Palmer Midgett was once the superintendent of the US Coast Guard for the 6th District. He raised his family in Rodanthe. We've got a wonderful photograph of Palmer (in his dress whites) posing with the crew of the Pea Island Station, probably from the 1920's or so. Still have a lot of details to learn.

Eventually the house will be restored, although it's in pretty good shape right now. We will eventually refurbish it with period furniture, open it to the public, interpret life on Hatteras Island during that period. Linda Malloy of Chicamacomico LSS, 2/21/05