Pea Island Lifesavers’ Heroic 1896 Rescue Commemorated on 130th Anniversary
The article reflects on the 130th anniversary of the 1896 rescue of the schooner E.S. Newman's crew by the Pea Island Lifesavers, led by Keeper Richard Etheridge. The event, which occurred during a hurricane, is highlighted for its historical significance…
Greenville New Bern Washington, NC, October 9, 2026 —
The year 1896 saw a remarkable act of bravery off the coast of North Carolina when the Pea Island Lifesavers, under the command of Keeper Richard Etheridge, undertook a perilous rescue mission. This year marks the 130th anniversary of that significant event, which involved saving the crew of the schooner E.S. Newman during a fierce hurricane. The anniversary serves as a moment to reflect on the courage and dedication of these early lifesaving crews and their enduring legacy.
The Pea Island station, a crucial outpost for maritime safety, was staffed by an all-Black crew, a rarity for the time, and led by Keeper Etheridge, who himself was a pioneering figure. The circumstances of the E.S. Newman rescue were particularly harrowing. The schooner was caught in the violent grip of a hurricane, its crew facing imminent peril. The Pea Island Lifesavers, despite the extreme weather conditions that would deter many, launched their surfboat to reach the distressed vessel.
The operation required immense skill and fortitude. Navigating treacherous waves and powerful winds, the lifesaving crew managed to reach the E.S. Newman and bring its stranded sailors to safety. The successful rescue underscored the vital role of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, a predecessor to the modern Coast Guard, in protecting mariners along America’s often unforgiving coastlines.
Keeper Richard Etheridge’s leadership was instrumental. His crew’s unwavering commitment to their duty, even in the face of life-threatening conditions, cemented their place in maritime history. The 130th anniversary of this specific rescue highlights not only the dangers faced by sailors and rescuers alike but also the profound historical significance of the Pea Island Lifesavers’ contributions to saving lives at sea. Their actions continue to inspire and serve as a testament to human resilience and the importance of dedicated public service.
Story summarized from the original created by Joan Collins on coastalreview.org, see more information here.
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