Pea Island Life Saving Station
Restoration Project

Sunday's Child is the first of a series of three books comprising the riveting Pea Island Gold trilogy. Although this story is fiction it has a basis in fact. Once you read the story you'll get a feel for the character of the men who manned the real Pea Island Life Saving Station, and hopefully you'll be encouraged to learn more about these true African American heroes.

The Station, The Men, The Medal

The Pea Island Life Saving Station (LSS) was the first station to be manned by an all black crew. From 1880 until 1947 when the station was decommissioned by the US Coast Guard, these men risked their lives to save victims and cargo from the treacherous Graveyard of the Atlantic. It did not matter to them whether the victims were black or white, rich or poor, American or foreign. With dauntless resolution and unconquerable faith, these men overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles, and became heroes and legends. Along the way, they inspired many young black men to enter into military service.

Unlike the white crews throughout the country during this time, the Pea Islanders received no recognition for the outstanding job they did. That is, until 1996 when the US Coast Guard posthumously awarded the 1896 crew with the Gold Lifesaving Medal for their brave and daring rescue of the crew and passengers of the E.S. Newman which ran aground during a hurricane. The Gold Lifesaving Medal is the highest honor given for peace time rescues.

The Restoration

Thanks to the efforts of many, the history of this historic Life Saving Station and its heroic crewmen will be preserved in Manteo, NC for future generations. Soon, the public will be able to walk through the beautifully restored original cookhouse (see above) as well as a detailed replica of the main living quarters of the Pea Island Lifesaving Station.

The Pea Island African American Heritage Center and Memorial Gardens at Collins Park will stand as a constant memorial to these courageous men who triumphed over unbeatable odds. The cookhouse will be restored and will be used as a museum displaying memorabilia, artifacts, relics, and pictures depicting life in the Life Saving Service.

The living quarters will be reconstructed and will be used as a community center. It will include a research and reading room where visitors can research their genealogy or African American history. The center will also host cultural programs for the community and visitors including African American artists, authors, dance troops, and musical groups. Inside the center will be a pictoral history of the African American community on the Outer Banks, showcasing the many African Americans who have contributed greatly to the economic, cultural, and social growth of the Outer Banks.

Surrounding these buildings will be the Dellerva Collins Memorial Gardens. The gardens will be a living tribute to this gracious African American woman who sat on the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Manteo for more than 26 years, and who envisioned this historic museum and park.

Original cookhouse being moved to Manteo, NC in (2006)

Original cookhouse being restored in Manteo, NC