Join us for a captivating poetic lecture by Ted Olsson as he takes us back in time to explore the brave and selfless acts of the US Life-Saving Service Stations on Plum Island.

Date: Saturday, November 4, 2023

Time: 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center Auditorium, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport, MA 01950

This is a FREE event. We look forward to seeing you there!

About the Event

From 1874 into the early 20th century, the US Life-Saving Service Stations on Plum Island stood as a beacon of hope, manned 24/7 during the storm season. Their primary mission? To save mariners from the treacherous shipwrecks off our coast. The valiant crews, known as Surfmen, often risked their own lives in perilous conditions to ensure the safety of others. In 1915, the US Life-Saving Service transitioned into what we now recognize as the US Coast Guard. The legacy of the Surfmen still lives on, with many continuing to serve at the USCG Merrimack River Station in Newburyport.

About the Speaker

Ted Olsson, an amateur historian and poet, has deep roots in the local area, with a family history intertwined with the iconic Plum Island Light. As the current President of the Friends of Parker River NWR and a Director and Docent of the Custom House Maritime Museum in Newburyport, Olsson is passionately dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich maritime history of our region.

Join Us Virtually

Can’t make it in person? No problem! We welcome our audience to join us via a virtual meeting on Zoom.

To participate virtually, please pre-register by sending an email to friends@parkerriver.org. Zoom directions and access information will be emailed to registrants.

This event is proudly sponsored by the Friends of Parker River NWR, Inc. and the Parker River NWR. To learn more about our mission and other events, visit parkerriver.org.