Here is a good article on the history of the US Life-Saving Service.
http://www.writing-teaching.com/article-uscg%20lifesaving.htm I ran across a link to a couple of "Houses of Refuge" in Florida and added them to the USLSS page on the Internet Index:
Along the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, Houses of Refuge were established. These had a keeper and small boat, but did not attempt active lifesaving measures. They were to provide succor to mariners who managed to reach shore in desolate areas. The last house of refuge still standing is located at Gilbert's Bar, on Hutchinson Island near Stuart, Florida. It's now part of a larger museum, and doubles as a sea turtle hatchery; still providing refuge for another type of mariner.
[This message has been edited by JChidester (edited 07-29-2001).]
