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STEAMER SS PORTLAND LOST IN GALE 1898

12183. Large historically significant lot of articles pertaining to the ill fated STEAMER SS PORTLAND (capsized and sunk off Thatcher's Island in the horrific gale of November 26, 1898 with 167 souls lost) to include THE ONLY KNOWN ORIGINAL PHOTO of her CAPTAIN HOLLIS H. BLANCHARD along with an exquisite CASED MODEL by the noted nautical model maker GEORGE SINE plus ORIGINAL 1898 NEWSPAPER ACCOUNTS, photos, prints, books, postcards and other research material. Please inquire. 

10468. (framed albumen photograph) Steamship Portland - Portland Steam Packet Company c.1890’s. Large format albumen photo of the Portland Steam Packet Company Steamer 'Portland' 'Only line between Boston and Portland and Northern and Eastern Resorts', a broadside view of the side-wheeler underway with crowd on deck, in original pressed golden oak frame, with captioned mount, original rippled glass. 19 ½” x 29 ¼” image, frame 33 ¼” x 43”.  The side-wheel steamship Portland was one of the largest and most palatial vessels afloat in New England during the 1890s. Built in 1889 by, the steamer ran between Portland, Maine and Boston until its loss with all hands in 1898. The Portland's loss was New England's greatest steamship disaster prior to the year 1900. The wooden-hulled paddle wheel steamship measured 291 feet in total length with a maximum breadth of 68 feet. Built in 1889 by the New England Shipbuilding Company of Bath, Maine, the steamer was one of New England's largest and most luxurious side paddle wheel steamships, accommodating up to 800 passengers. For nearly 10 years Portland connected Boston, Massachusetts and Portland, Maine for the Portland Steam Packet Company (later renamed the Portland Steamship Company) without much notoriety. Portland carried thousands of passengers and tons of cargo along the New England coast and earned the reputation as a safe and dependable steamer. $3,900.

12122. (complimentary pass) Portland Steam Packet Company. 1887. 2 3/8” x 3 7/8”. Pass #229 dated until December 31, 1889, allows Mr. W.A. Stone, Master Mechanic, of the Louisville, Evansville & St. Louis Railroad free passage on vessels of the Portland Steam Packet Company. Pass is printed in black on buff card stock by the Franklin Bank Note Company. Beautifully printed with a wonderful vignette of a company walking beam side paddle wheel steamer. Includes printed signature of the company president. The Portland Steamship Company started as the Portland Steam Packet Company in 1844, and was later consolidated into the Eastern Steamship Company. One of their vessels, the side-wheel steamship Portland,  was one of the largest and most palatial vessels afloat in New England during the 1890s. Built in 1889 by, the steamer ran between Portland, Maine and Boston until its loss with all hands in 1898. The Portland's loss was New England's greatest steamship disaster prior to the year 1900. Only light soiling, otherwise very good. (VG+). $88.

2115n. [color plate] color plate UNITED STATES ENSIGNS & FLAGS. c.1903. US Department of Navy, Washington. Stone chromolithograph color plate by Taber Prang Art Co., Boston, one of the finest US lithographers of the early 20th century. This 1-page 8 ½” x 11 ½” color plate disbound from an early reference details 6 types of United States ensigns/flags. Most interesting are the Lighthouse Service pennant, Revenue Marine Ensign and Revenue Marine Pennant. Also includes views of Secretary of the Treasury flag, United States Mail pennant, and yacht ensign. Clean, crisp, printed on heavier, matte finish paper. Perfect for framing or reference. (F-). $56.

12164. (mounted photo) Spring Point Ledge Light Station, Portland, Maine c. 1897. 6 ½” x 8 ½”. Extremely rare mounted photo by unknown photographer shows great detail of the lighthouse, probably while nearing completion of construction. Spring Point Ledge is a dangerous obstruction on the west side of the main shipping channel from the south into Portland Harbor. Many vessels ran aground on the ledge before requests from seven steamship companies in 1891 convinced the federal government to build a lighthouse. The structure was a fairly typical "sparkplug" style lighthouse of the period, built on a cylindrical cast-iron caisson. Unlike many of this type, however, the tower is built of brick rather than cast-iron. The 54-foot lighthouse has a storeroom and cistern in the basement, topped by four levels including a keeper's office and two levels of living quarters. The lantern was fitted with a fifth-order Fresnel lens. The light was first lighted May 24, 1897 by Keeper William A. Lane. An oil room in the basement contained a 239-gallon tank for the kerosene that fueled the light in its early days, until it was electrified in 1934. A fog bell hung on the side of the tower, which sounded a double blow every 12 seconds by means of a striking mechanism powered by a clockwork mechanism with 800 pounds of weights. Superb close view, clear and only light wear to mount. It is extremely difficult to find such early views and this view is certainly one of the larger, better ones. Measures 8 ” x 10” overall. (VG+). $110.

12181. Karentz, Varoujan. The Life Savers - Rhode Island’s Forgotten Service. Amazon. 2012. 252p. Soft wraps. Please inquire. 

29348e. Brass oil filler can. Can is completely original, with spout and brass lower and upper brace, and screw threads for cap on top, complete with cap, without chain. Can has its two original handles is completely original. With few if any slight dents, original patina and should clean and polish up nicely.  In very good condition, perfect for display. Bottom marked “National Metal Spinning & Stamping Company, NY. “ 6” high. 13” long. Perfect for display where you don’t wish to risk a more expensive Lighthouse Service can. (VG). $78.

12180. Grieder, James Everett and Georgen Charnes. Nantucket. Arcadia. 2012. 128p. Soft wraps. 180 vintage photographs. Nantucket was first settled by Europeans in 1659. The earliest settlers, known as the “Proprietors,” envisioned a community of farmers and shepherds, but the island found its fortune as a preeminent whaling port in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. During its time under Quaker influence, Nantucket was a cosmopolitan and dynamic place; radical new ideas, like abolitionism and women’s rights, found fertile ground in the Quakers’ firm belief in equality. As the entrance to the harbor became impassible, Nantucket lost its whaling focus and experienced a general economic decline. Ironically, this downturn and the resulting absence of new building, along with modern cultural change, became the springboard for its later revival. Nantucket was transformed into a tourist destination, an artist colony, and a summer home to the wealthy and famous, with a rich maritime heritage and a proud tradition of historic preservation. Through a wealth of vintage photographs and descriptive text, the authors reveal Nantucket’s rich history and her people.  Superb photographs, well worth it for the photos alone. (M). $21.99.

2726-53. (stereoview) Street View, Centre Street “Petticoat Row”, Nantucket by C.H. Shute & Son c.1870’s. Rare 19th C. stereoview looking north on Centre Street “Petticoat Row”as seen from Main Street. View of businesses includes the awning for an ice cream saloon is visible on the right, as well as part of the Ocean House Hotel in the background. Note the large flag mast visible on right. A greatly detailed view, clear, some wear, light soiling and some spots, foxing, light edge wear. (VG-). $56.

12182b. (mounted view) The Old Mill, Nantucket c.1890's possibly by Harry Platt. Early view shows a lovely early view of the old mill and crossroads. The third of the 19th century trio of outstanding Nantucket photographers was Harry Platt, a native of Georgia, who came to Nantucket in the late 1880's. He opened a shop on Centre Street, and his photographs rivaled Wyer's in their excellent composition. He took many scenes about the town and along the wharves, and also made portraits of individuals as "tin-types." Rare scene measures 3 ¼” x 3 ¼” on 6” x 6” mount. Clean, clear, one chip to lower corner of image. (VG+). $28.

12160c. (mounted view) The Old Mill, Nantucket c.1890's possibly by Harry Platt. Early view shows a lovely close, early view of the old mill. The third of the 19th century trio of outstanding Nantucket photographers was Harry Platt, a native of Georgia, who came to Nantucket in the late 1880's. He opened a shop on Centre Street, and his photographs rivaled Wyer's in their excellent composition. He took many scenes about the town and along the wharves, and also made portraits of individuals as "tin-types." Rare scene measures 3 ¼” x 3 ¼” on 6” x 6” mount. Clean, clear, quite close. (VG+). $38.

23371d. United States Lighthouse Establishment/Service Post Lantern “B”. Scarce, original United States Lighthouse Establishment or Service brass, originally oil lit post lantern. Brass label is marked: “POST LANTERN B”. Brass and copper lantern appears original, with clear Fresnel lens. Lens is intact but has lengthy crack. Original twist in oil lamp is not present but unit is otherwise complete. With few if any very minor expected dents, no cracks. Lantern has been electrified years ago but it needs replacement. Overall in good, original condition. Approx. 12” dia. Overall height 27”. A fine example of this rare style of Lighthouse Establishment navigational aid. (VG).  $1345.

23371e. United States Lighthouse Establishment/Service Post Lantern “B” Frame with Housing Sections. Scarce, original United States Lighthouse Establishment or Service brass, originally oil lit post lantern parts include frame, lower housing, upper housing with weather cap. Brass label is marked: “POST LANTERN B”. Overall in good, original condition. Perfect for repaiting your damaged Post Lantern “B”. Approx. 12” dia. Overall height 27”. (VG). $345.

25378b. (souvenir trivet) Superb blue on white trivet, featuring a close and detailed image of "Highland Light Cape Cod Mass." Plate features a large, detailed image of the tall masonry tower, with the keeper’s dwellings to each side, surrounded by a flowered border in deep blue on white. Made in England by Adams & Co. for YeTown Crier Gift Shop, Provincetown, Mass." Also with the lion logo of "Jones, McDuffee & Stratton, Boston". This large collectible measures 6 ½” in diameter. This is a wonderful, early commemorative piece and is one of the nicest Highland Light pieces that I have yet found. A bright, crisp piece, near fine. (F-). $148.

1035i. United States Lighthouse Service Porcelain Sign – Large Size c.1900. We have been fortunate to find this scarce original porcelain on steel warning sign that once marked Lighthouse Service property on the Great Lakes (Lake Erie). Sign is blue porcelain on heavy weight steel and lettered in white. Sign measure 13” x 21” and is lettered: “U.S. Lighthouse Service. All Persons are warned not to trespass on this structure or interfere with it in any way. Violators assume all risk and will be prosecuted. By order of Commissioner of Lighthouses.” Sign has little or no wear and was probably never used. Guaranteed original, from long time Coast Guardsman / museum collection. Will look great on your wall. (F-). $665. 

28413h. (wooden block) United States Life Saving Service c.1880. Early U. S. Life Saving Service wood block  is complete with hook and is nicely branded “U.S.L.S.S on the wood cheek. Block is, of course, used but is nicely intact, and in wonderful condition. This is an extremely difficult to find item used in the life-saving station. Condition is excellent and this will make an important addition to your collection. Measures 10 ½”  overall length including hook. Shieves 3 ½” diameter. (VG+). $585.

8341-42. [cup/saucer] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Mayer China Beaver Falls, PA. by Interpace USA 373 174”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. Cup measures 3 7/8” diameter, 2 ¼” high, saucer 6 ¼” diameter. Little if any wear. (F-). Set $74.

Chatham 200th Anniversary:

12162. (souvenir pin/button). The 200th Anniversary of the Incorporation of the Town of Chatham, Massachusetts 1712-1912.  Original color lithographed tin souvenir pin commemorating the 200th celebration in Chatham during the anniversary year. Features a wonderful image from photo of the early Chatham twin lighthouses bordered by American flag and “200th Anniversary Chatham, Mass.”. With suspension pin “1712-1912”.  Completely original, little if any wear. Quite rare. (VG+). $114. 

12129. na. The 200th Anniversary of the Incorporation of the Town of Chatham, Massachusetts 1712-1912.  Memorial or Report of the 1912 Celebration. 1913 Edition. Published by the Authority of the Town Celebration Committee. 120p. Cloth wraps. 8 photo plates. Book by the Town Celebration Committee commemorates the 200th celebration in Chatham during the anniversary year. Includes extensive descriptions of the celebration, parades, floats, addresses by local dignitaries, concerts and balls, dinners, residences decorated, water carnival including demonstration and drills by the local Life-Saving Service crews from the Chatham and Monomoy stations, history of the town and residents, Chatham lighthouses, power and surf boat races, and more. Wonderful Chatham collectible, great information. Ex lib with occasional library stamps and pocket, one page bottom half missing. Pages some occasional light soil, a few tears, wraps edge worn, spine worn, some spots. (G+). $38.

Lot both Chatham Anniversary items $145.

12172. (cabinet photo) U.S. Lighthouse Tender Geranium c. 1879. Extremely rare albumen photo by unknown photographer shows great detail of the U.S. Lighthouse Tender Geranium (1865-1910) underway. USLHT Geranium, a 224-ton side-wheel steamer, was built at Newburgh, New York, in 1863 as the civilian vessel John A. Dix. She was purchased by the Navy in September 1863 and commissioned in mid-October as USS Geranium for service as a tug. Assigned to the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, she was used as a picket boat, dispatch vessel and transport in the coastal waters of northern Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. After the war, USS Geranium left South Carolina in June 1865 and was decommissioned at Washington, D.C. She was sold to the Treasury Department in October 1865 and became a light house tender with no change in name. She was assigned to the Eighth LH District out of New Orleans. In 1879 she was rebuilt and lengthened to 155 feet. In 1884 she was reassigned to the Fourth LH District and in 1890 transferred to the Second LH District (Massachusetts). Finally she was transferred to the First LH District (Maine & NH) in 1907. After over four decades of service supporting the Nation's aids to navigation USLHT Geranium was sold in 1910. This image shows the tender before she was lengthened in 1879 – quite rare. Excellent view, close and clear, only very light wear. It is extremely difficult to find such early views and this view is certainly one of the larger, better ones. Measures 5 ” x 7”. (VG+). $124.

12170. (cabinet photo) Fog Signal Experiments at Boston Light Station c. 1894. 5" x 7". Please inquire.

12169. (cabinet photo) Grindle Point Light Station, Islesboro, Maine c. 1880’s. Extremely rare albumen photo by unknown photographer shows great detail of the square brick light tower and connected keeper’s dwelling, now the Sailor's Memorial Museum . Islesboro is a 13-mile long, narrow island in upper Penobscot Bay . After a Congressional appropriation of $3500 in March 1848, a light station was established at Grindle Point on South Islesboro's west coast in 1851 to aid mariners entering Gilkey Harbor . The present 1874 light tower is a square 39-foot brick tower attached by a covered walkway to the 1 ½ -story keeper's house. Excellent view, close and clear, only very light wear. It is extremely difficult to find such early views and this view is certainly one of the larger, better ones. Measures 5 ” x 7”. (VG+). $84.

12166. (cabinet photo) Spring Point Ledge Light Station, Portland, Maine c. 1897. 6 ½” x 8 ½”. Please inquire.

20109e. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Fuel / Thinner Storage Can c.1939.  Scarce, original United States Lighthouse Service galvanized steel storage can. Side of can is embossed: “U S L H S”. This United States Lighthouse Service galvanized steel fuel or thinner storage can is a great example of this style can. Most of this type of can found its way to area farms or barns when they were discontinued and long ago were used until they rusted out. This is a superb example, complete with no rust and in solid condition This would be a most affordable way to add this style to your collection. Body of can is intact with only a few expected dents and overall in excellent condition. Fill/pour spout is located on the top in its original form. Heavy wire carrying bail [handle] is intact, with original wooden hand hold. The face of the can bears the protruding initials of the Lighthouse Service: “U S L H S”. Also, “PROP NO 753 4-13-39” is stamped into the metal on the opposite side. Bottom of can bears an applied cartouche stamped “S. G. Adams Metaleware Co., St. Louis ”. Base 11 ¼” diameter. Overall height 16” to spout. A very scarce and little known item for your Lighthouse Service collection. (VG) $595.

10110c. (cabinet photo) Pump Square in Siasconset by Henry S. Wyer c.1890's. Extremely rare albumen photo by Henry S Wyer  of Nantucket and Yonkers shows great detail of residents at Pump Square in Siasconset. The Nantucket Historical Association archives notes that “…the home in the background is known as “The Corners”, on center Street. Sitting on the fishing dray is Henry Tucker. The horse and box wagon belong to George C. Gardner and the man in the cart may be Avery Gardner. At the pump handle is little Annie Alden Folger, at the back of the pump is Joe Norcross.” View is unusually clear, on tan mount with Wyer’s backmark. View has moderate foxing and soiling, some corner wear to mount. It is extremely difficult to find early views of Nantucket and this view is certainly one of the better and more interesting views. View measures 4 ¼” x 6 ½”. (G+). $114.

12140. (accent lamp) Lighthouse with Keeper c.1930-1950. Overall 16” high with lovely floral etched Victorian globe. Lovely period lamp will enhance any room. Cast metal base includes light keeper at base of lighthouse, holding lantern high in the air. 110v. Recently re-wired with period wire. Marked “No. 122”. Unknown manufacturer. Beautiful piece. (VG+). $144.

2739. Smith, Robert H. SMITH’S GUIDE TO MARITIME MUSEUMS OF NORTH AMERICA. Del Mar. 2006. 6th. 250p. with photo CD of maritime subjects. Soft wraps, spiral bound. This month we have received a pair of books by Robert H. Smith that are valuable additions to any maritime history collection. The first is the latest version of  “Maritime Museums of North America” listing over 600 maritime museums, canals and canal locks, and lighthouse museums. Smith’s work has for many years been the only comprehensive guide in print. In it you will find such information as location and how to get there, phone numbers, description of major exhibits, history, gift shops and more. Every page is filled with vivid descriptions of ships on display, lighthouses and their surroundings, and almost anything the author, researcher or visitor would need to know. Fully updated and illustrated. I use this guide as a reference to contact lighthouse related museums and I am sure that it will be of great use to you as well. This latest edition has pointers to museum Web sites and accompanying photo CD with more than 400 images of maritime subjects from around the country organized by state. (M). Published at $19.95.  Our Price $18.95.

1276. Cheek, Richard (ed). From Guiding Lights to Beacons for Business: The Many Lives of Maine's Lighthouses. Historic New England. 2012. 240p. Soft wraps. Published by Historic New England, this new book contains an amazing amount of material with a layout and design like no other book published about Maine's Lighthouses. The influence of Maine's lighthouses derives not just from the structures themselves but from the myriad forms of writing, representation and reproduction that they have inspired. This book is the third volume in the visual history series that Historic New England is publishing, and contains  ten detailed chapters by seven authors, with an introduction by Senator Snowe. With 240 pages and hundreds of color and b/w images, the book is loaded with amazing facts and wonderful visual imagery. Some chapters include: Throw Out the Life-Line, Shaping the Towers, All Alone and Ever Ready, Children Lighthouses and Lifeboats, Saving the Sentinels. The perfect, entertaining, Maine lighthouse book and a must-have for anyone with interest in lighthouses and how they have influenced society, advertising and more over the last century. Shown above is an image from the book, Keepers Robert T. Sterling and Frank Hilt, keepers at Portland Head Light. This is a limited printing and sure to sell out fast. Order now to reserve your copy. Due out in June. (M). $34.95.

5/1/12

12147. Baker, Kimball. “For Those in Peril”: A History of the Ocean City Life-Saving Station. 2011. Ocean City, NJ. 40p. Soft wraps. This story of the Ocean City Life-Saving Station is twofold: the story of the station and its rescuers, and the story of those who, through vision and perseverance, saved this important piece of our history from the wrecking ball. This 40-page, illustrated booklet provides both histories, and invites you to take part in making the rest of the story. A special feature of the booklet is a chronology of station-saving events, beginning with the listing of the property for sale in August 1998 and leading to the station’s restoration phase. Also included: an acknowledgement of those who rallied to preserve this beautiful station on site, and a chart with much information about its U.S. Life-Saving Service rescuers. Interesting account of the 1871 Red-House Type station and the later 1882-Type stations. (M). $10.95. 

U.S. Light-House Establishment Traveling Library Box

Only 1 left - there will be no more made ! 

In an effort to satisfy the intellectual need of remote light keepers and their families, the Light-House Establishment in 1876 first introduced portable libraries and furnished to all light vessels and inaccessible offshore light stations a selection of reading materials. Later the U. S. Life Saving Service also began to furnish identical library boxes to all of their stations as well. These libraries were contained in a portable wooden case, each with a printed listing of the contents posted inside the door. Such library boxes measures about 2 feet high, 2 feet wide, and 8 inches deep. They were made of shellacked white pine strengthened with heavy brass trimmings. Inside were two shelves of different heights. The doors were secured with a bolt on one, and with a mortised lock on the other. On the sides were hinged handles. The cases were constructed so as to make a neat appearance when on a table yet be sturdy for transport. By the end of the century there would be over 700 library boxes in service at lighthouses, and scores more with the life-saving stations.

We had been most fortunate to find a local craftsman who has duplicated these original library boxes in every detail. After acquiring an original, he carefully dismantled it and recorded every measurement and construction detail. Each beautiful reproduction is hand made of heavy pine with dovetail joints, cast brass hinges and handles, back bands, door lock and hand lettered "U.S.L.H. Est. Library No. 338" (number may vairy) , as were the originals 

These boxes will deserve an honored place in your den or library, and would be the perfect place to store your original library books as you find them. For museums these make a perfect companion for your Lighthouse Service or Life Saving Service display. Please inquire for current pricing. Only 1 box remains - no more will be made. 

Just In. 

12134. Dresser, Thomas. Disaster off Martha’s Vineyard. 2012. History Press. 160p. Soft wraps. With its rocky coast and treacherous shoals, shipwrecks were a common occurrence in nineteenth-century Massachusetts. Few claimed as many lives as the City of Columbus. The night was clear and the route familiar for Captain Schuyler Wright and his experienced crew as they sailed a ship equipped with the latest technology. Yet with all this, the City of Columbus went down with 103 souls. Over a century later, Eric Takakjian and the Quest Marine Services team located the wreckage of the City of Columbus on the north ledge of the Devil’s Bridge, off the southern tip of Gay Head. Historian Thomas Dresser takes us into the icy waters of the Atlantic as he recounts the terrible chain of events that led to disaster on that fateful night. (M).  $19.99.

4749. Hough, George A. Jr., DISASTER ON DEVIL’S BRIDGE. Mystic, CT. 1963. 146p. Soft wraps. The most complete account of the wreck and loss of the steamer SS City of Columbus off Gay Head, Martha’s Vineyard in 1884. The first news of the loss came when the Revenue Cutter Dexter arrived in New Bedford on January 18th, with a handful of survivors. The City of Columbus sailed on her maiden voyage from New York on August 28th 1878. The beautifully appointed ship was 275’ long and displaced 2,200 gross tons. On January 17th, 1884, as the ship departed Nickerson’s wharf in Boston bound for Savannah, many on board were anticipating the pleasant climate of the south as an escape from the bitter mid winter cold of New England. Sometime later at approximately 3:15 am the lookout spotted a buoy on the starboard bow in a position where one should not have been. Captain Wright immediately recognized that the ship was perilously close to the rocks on Devils Bridge, a rocky shoal extending out into Vineyard Sound from the South West tip of Martha’s Vineyard at Gay Head. A moment later the ship struck bottom on Devils Bridge. The City of Columbus was doomed, with her bottom badly punctured by the rocks in several places she sank rather quickly, coming to rest with her bow, smokestack and masts out of the water. In the end the loss of the City of Columbus was New England’s worst maritime disaster to date - a total of 104 people either drowned or froze to death in the rigging, only 29 were saved. With a detailed account of the men of the Revenue Cutter Dexter and their heroic rescues, and the attempts of the Life-Savers, this is the most complete and interesting account of this disaster to date. Well illustrated with photographs. Clean, very good copy. (VG+). $28.

3121c. THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS . REPORT 1885. Boston . 1886. 80p. Original stiff wraps. Wonderful report, includes listings of Officers and Trustees, Officers past and present, List of Life-Boats, Gun Stations and Huts of Refuge, List of Awards 1786-1880, 1880-1885, Life-Boat Service 1880-1885, Instructions to Captains of the Life-Saving Stations,  General Summary of the Work of the Society, List of Wrecks and Life-Boat Services, Equipment of Stations, Directions for Restoring the Apparently Drowned, and more. A tremendous amount of information about this important early predecessor to the Life-Saving Service. Includes beautiful photogravure illustrations of Marblehead station and life-boat and medal awards. Contents clean and tight, Original stiff wraps nicely intact, some soiling and edge wear. (VG). $225. Reduced $195. 

6267g. Howe, M. A. DeWolf. THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS - AN HISTORICAL REVIEW 1785-1916. Boston . 1918. 398pp. No. 147 of a limited 1st edition. Illustrated with over 34 fine photogravures of the Society’s Life-Saving stations, boats, crews and equipment. Chronicles the founding and early activities of the Society including the establishment of stations and huts-of-refuge, rescues and resuscitations, Medal of Honor winners, etc. Includes listing of huts and stations and medal winners from 1786 until 1916. A rare title with a wealth of information on this early Service, beautifully presented. Contents clean, tight, covers only light wear, clean, bright.  (VG).  $169. Reduced $155. 

29377. (life ring with water light) Massachusetts Humane Society. c.1941. Extremely scarce life ring measures 19 inches in diameter and is in uncommonly good condition, whitewashed and quite clean with black lettering “Mass Humane Soc’y”. Life ring is attached by an 8 foot rope lanyard to a copper self-igniting light that was designed to be used on ship’s lifeboats. Sold by Marine Torch Company of Baltimore, Md.,  the side is embossed: “The Water Light Res-q-Lite Marine Torch”, etc. The ring buoy once lived in a bracket attached to the pipe rails of a ship’s weather deck, on a lifeboat or on a pier,  and the water light was hung from an adjacent fitting. In practice - if a man went overboard, the first people to be aware of the fact were supposed to throw ring buoy overboard, in the hopes the man could grab it. The water light, hanging from its bracket would be thrown over with the ring buoy it was attached to. The act of pulling the water light from its bracket would break the solder holding an axial rod that penetrated both the top and the bottom of the water light. When the unit hit the water, it would start flooding through the hole in the bottom. Water coming in contact with the lumps of calcium carbide inside the canister would start the production of acetylene gas. The gas would emerge through the hole left by the axial rod in the top of the water light, and the gas would burn - giving off light and thereby marking the location of the ring buoy and, hopefully, the man grasping it. Well made canister measures 5 ¼” in diameter by 9” high overall and is constructed entirely of copper with soldered seams. Canister is still intact and unused. This is a rare set provided by this noted humanitarian organization and would make a fine display. (VG). $445. Reduced $385. 

27290. (stereoview) Massachusetts Humane Society Boathouse, Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, Mass. c.1870’s by S. F. Adams, Oak Bluffs, Mass. Early view shows what we believe to be a boathouse of the Massachusetts Humane Society at Oak Bluffs. The building is not labeled but inside can be clearly seen a lifeboat behind the two chairs. In the background can be seen a schooner’s masts at the wharf. Clean clear view on yellow mount. Unusually nice early view. (VG+).  $144. 

12123. (photo) “Whale Boats at the west end of Muskeget Island, (Nantucket) Mass. looking east.” Image c.1910 Frank E Claes collection print c.1950. A print from an original negative from the collection of Frank E Claes later of Camden Maine. This photo of “Whale Boats at the west end of Muskeget Island Mass. Looking east” Original photo was taken in 1910. 8” x 10”. Claes, a very accomplished photographer, photographed throughout New England including Nantucket. He opened a portrait studio in Camden, Maine in 1950. He also copied and made negatives for people, as well as for Historical Societies, Museums, and libraries. He was from the old school, keeping a copy of the negatives of the photos, so that people went back to him for copies. He specialized in reproducing copies of Maritime history, including photos of many ships. His photos have been featured in museums and in books throughout New England including the Maine book WALDO COUNTY - The Way It Was. Great view of early Muskeget life. (F-). $155. 

12155. (photo) Old U.S. Coast Guard Station, Nauset Beach, Eastham c.1978. Original large 9” x 13 ½ b/w National Park Service aerial photograph provides wonderful view of the old Coast Guard station at Nauset Beach on Cape Cod after the great storm of 1978 washed out the entire parking lot into the sea. Great detail of the changes resulting from the storm. After this storm, the roadway leading to the station had to be moved west to re-connect with the station. Another loss from this storm was Henry Beston’s cottage “The Fo’Castle”. Beston spent a year in this cottage in the 1920’s, writing of life and nature on an outer beach. His book, The Outermost House, was published in 1929 and has become a classic in modern literature. Superb image, great for framing. Dated May 27, 1978. (F-). $78.

5426e. Beston, Henry. THE OUTERMOST HOUSE – A Year of Life on the Great Beach of Cape Cod . New York . 1929 [1st U.S. ed.] Even though not marked, believe this is the second printing( First being 1928). 222p. 31 photographs, many by Bradford . A classic of American nature writing, The Outermost House is the journal of a year spent in a small cottage, “The Fo’Castle”, on Coast Guard Beach in Eastham. Through these wonderful writings we can sense the true feeling of life on the solitary beach as we watch the seasons unfold. As we watch the Coast Guardsmen patrol the beach for wrecks and invite a few in to warm themselves, we see too the numerous shore birds and other creatures of the dune world. Cited in 1960 by federal officials as one of the motivating forces in the creation of the Cape Cod National Seashore, this is a true classic and a wonderful vehicle by which to experience the outer beaches. Spine sunned, light wear, frontis page removed, contents clean and tight, otherwise VG+. Scarce early edition.  $78. 

12157. (chart) Massachusetts Cape Cod Bay. 1920. U. S. Coast and Geodetic Survey. 1:80,000. 34h” x 44w”. Includes all light stations, early Coast Guard stations, etc. Please inquire. 

12153. (mounted photo) Matinicus Rock Light House, Maine . c.1896. Matinicus Rock is a windswept 32-acre granite island, 18 miles off the mainland and 25 miles from Rockland. Noted families in service here included Abby Burgess and her family. Well publicized was her heroism in the winter gale of 1856. Later Abby married Captain Grant and continued her service at Matinicus and later at White Head Light. Excellent close view inside the protection of the buildings includes one of the twin gray granite light towers, attached dwelling and out buildings as well as one of the keepers entering a door. Keepers at the time of this photo included: William G. Grant, first assistant keeper, then keeper (1875-1900); Aldiverd Norton, third assistant keeper (1890-1897); George A. Lewis, third assistant keeper (1892-1898);  James E. Hall, third assistant keeper, later first assistant, then keeper (1896-1908). Photo measures 3 ½” x 3 ½” on 5” square mount. Image is clear though somewhat light. Some spots and wear to mount. Dated on back in pencil August 1896. Extremely rare close view. (VG-). $54.

12154. (cabinet photo) Surfman No. 4, U.S. Life-Saving Service by J.M. Chase, Newburyport, Mass. c.1880. Original portrait photograph of Massachusetts Life-Saving Service Surfman by J.M. Chase, Newburyport, Mass. This rare posed portrait photograph shows the handsome middle-aged surfman proudly posing in his 4-button single-breasted uniform coat and keppi cap. Clearly visible on his right sleeve is the life ring with crossed oar and pike and the letters “US” “LSS”, and his uniform cap with “U. S. Life Saving Service” clearly visible on the band. On the left sleeve is his surfman rank No. 4. However, below the numeral is a laurel wreath – the first time that we have seen this addition to the insignia. The image measures 4” x 5 ½” on 4 ¼” x 6 ½” mount. Mount is labeled “J.M. Chase, 39 State St, Newburyport, Mass.” Surfman is most likely on the Newburyport or the Plum Island station crew. Rare both for the clarity of the image and for the unusual insignia. This is unusually close and clear, one of the better images we have had in some time. Little or no wear, a perfect piece for framing. (F-). $335. Sold.

1295. (drawing plate) Details of Revolving Lantern for Lightships. The Engineer. August 22, 1884. 11” x 16”. Page 142 from The Engineer dated 1884 includes detailed sectional views of revolving lantern for lightships. Includes guide rollers, roof ventilator, sills, roof and more. Also includes is photocopy of second page from same article with additional illustrations. Article is not complete here. The Engineer was a London-based fortnightly magazine covering the latest developments and business news in engineering and technology in the UK and internationally. Founded in January 1856, it is among the world's oldest professional journals. The Engineer was established by Edward Charles Healey, an entrepreneur and engineering enthusiast with financial interests in the railways whose friends included Robert Stephenson and Isambard Brunel. Great detail, fine for framing or research. (VG+). $48.

SR-466. United States Lighthouse Service Brass Wall Clock c.1920-1930's. Original 8-day wall clock manufactured by the Seth Thomas Clock Company for the United States Lighthouse Service. Black on nickled brass face marked: “U. S. L. H. Service” and “Made by Seth Thomas in USA ”. Clocks from the U. S. Light House Service are rare and always in demand. Clock case is of solid brass, nickled with only some still remaining from years of polishing, with removable brass bezel. Handsome nickled face too is in very good condition with only light wear, hands in original black. Overall diameter 7 ¼” Overall height 2 5/8”.Clock with 8-day movement, runs well, includes winding key. This is an exceptional find for collectors of early clocks or Light House memorabilia. (VG+). $1295.

2726-52. (stereoview) Fair Street, Nantucket. c.1870’s by C.H. Shute & Son photographer. Close, clear view shows great detail of Fair Street from the corner of School Street, looking toward Main Street. The 2 ½- story home at #15 was formerly the home of Judge Defriez. The 3 -story home on the left is #13, now the Ships Inn. Quite clear, clean, some corner wear. Photographer’s label from back partially removed. On green mount. (VG). $88.

12156. (photo) Provincetown - Wreck of British Man-O-War Somerset Exposed c.1973. Clear, close original 8” x 10”press wire photo shows great detail of the remains of the British Revolutionary War warship Somerset exposed on the beach near Peaked Hill Bars as National Seashore Park Rangers take photos. The vessel figured prominently at the Battle of Bunker Hill. The last time the remains had become visible was in 1886. Photo is b/w and includes date and identification on back. Dated June 26, 1973. Clear, close view. Rare view. (VG). $26.

   (later view Mecox LSS) 

858. (mounted photo) U.S. Life-Saving Station (possibly Mecox, NY) c.1878. Clear close view of this 1875-Type station as the crew drills with the breeches buoy apparatus to the drill pole in the foreground. Regarding the identification of this station, Wick York, co-author with Ralph Shanks of “The U.S. Life-Saving Service”, notes: “I think (but I'm not certain) that this is an 1875-Type and that it could be the 1877 Mecox, NY station on Long Island that's on page 78 in our book. However in the book photo (and in all other photos of the station I've seen) the roof of the side lean to intersects the sidewall of the main part of the station below the eave of the main roof. In your photo the lean to's roof is an extension of the main roof. I've also never seen any photos of the station with a gable roof dormer like the one in your photo, although I have seen photos of the station with a shed roof dormer. And the station has two chimneys in the book photo while it has only one in your photo. I've seen photos of most but not every 1875 Type station and the Mecox station is the only one I've seen with an 1882 type tower like this one. It's very possible the Mecox station only had one chimney at some point but I find the lean to roof more difficult to explain.” This is a superb early view, one of the few that I have found of this vintage. Probably taken shortly after the station was constructed. Photo image measures 5 ½” x 8” on original 8” x 10” mount. Beautiful original piece. Overall clean, very good condition, only light moisture to margins of mount, foxing to back. (VG). $285. 

12145a. (copy photo) Cape Henlopen, Delaware, Coast Guard Station. Crystal clear b/w photograph (not digital), taken of the original by a Bethany Beach, Delaware photographer from archive collections, shows the Coast Guard station after collapsing, a victim of the encroaching sea. The station was located 9 miles north of Indian River Inlet, and 2 1/8 miles south of tip of Cape Henlopen. It was built in 1876 – a vastly expanded 1875-Type station. The station was discontinued in 1937.  8” x 10”. Clear, crisp. (F-). $20.

12145b. (copy photo) Port Mahon, Delaware, Coast Guard Station c.1938. Crystal clear b/w photograph (not digital), taken of the original by a Bethany Beach, Delaware photographer from archive collections, shows the Coast Guard station and boat house. c. 1938 image. 8” x 10”. Clear, crisp. (F-). $16.

12145c. (copy photo) Green Run Inlet Life Saving Station, Maryland c.1880. Crystal clear b/w photograph (not digital), taken of the original by a Bethany Beach, Delaware photographer from archive collections, shows the Green Run Inlet station on Assateague Island, 13 ½ miles north of the lighthouse. Station Green Run Inlet was an 1874-Type station, the first station constructed on the Maryland coastline. During a two-week period in January of 1883, the station crew rescued a total of 50 persons. The station was discontinued in 1929. c. 1880 image. 8” x 10”. Clear, crisp. (F-). $20.

12145d. (copy photo) Rehoboth Beach Life Saving Station, Delaware c.1896. Crystal clear b/w photograph (not digital), taken of the original by a Bethany Beach, Delaware photographer from archive collections, shows the 1876-Type Rehoboth Beach station in 1896. The station was located on beach, abreast the north end of Rehoboth Bay, 6-3/8 miles south by east of the Delaware Breakwater Light. The station was built in 1878 and by 1921 had been discontinued. c. 1896 image. 8” x 10”. Clear, crisp. (F-). $20.

12132. (document) U.S. Life-Saving Service, First District, Great Boar’s Head (Hampton Beach) Station c.1899. B. F. Smart, Keeper. Original hand-written letter dated July 11, 1899, from Keeper Smart to James A. Robinson & Son (clothiers), of Bangor, Maine, in which he orders a light weight officer's suit for himself and discusses the quality of uniforms from other distributors in comparison to those of Robinson & Son. Keeper Smart notes his satisfaction and that he will recommend this clothier to his crew as well. Quite interesting insight. 3 sheets. 8” x 10” on official Life-Saving Service stationery. Rare First District document in overall good condition, light soiling. Two original folds. (VG). $144.

1287. Wilkins, Mark C. Cape Cod's Oldest Shipwreck - The Desperate Crossing of the Sparrow-Hawk. 2011. History Press. 128p. Soft wraps. Over 40 images. In 1626, the Sparrow-Hawk began its final journey across the brutal winter waves of the Atlantic Ocean, departing from the southern coast of England-with America as its goal. As cases of scurvy and whispers of mutiny rose, the hopes of those aboard the small vessel began to fade. The ever-changing coastline of Cape Cod caused the Sparrow-Hawk to run aground. Desperate to repair their ship and attain their goal of becoming wealthy Virginia tobacco planters, they wrecked her again, forcing them to abandon their beloved ship, and take up residence in Plymouth colony. Revealed by the tides over two hundred years later, the wreckage was pillaged by local scavengers and put on display in Boston. Join Mark Wilkins as he delves into the secrets of the Sparrow-Hawk. (M). $19.99. 

SR-461. United States Life-Saving Service. Lyle Bronze Gun “C”. Scarce, original bronze United States Life-Saving Service Lyle Gun complete with Carriage, reproduction Quoin (Elevation Block), and firing mechanism. Muzzle embossed:   “RIW  No 564   1905   T.L.A.  Trunion is embossed: “U. S. L. S. S.”. Original Lyle Bronze Gun “C” Life-Saving Service line cannon was cast for the Life-Saving Service at the Richmond Iron Works in 1905. Records indicate that in 1905 the Richmond Iron Works made 200 Lyle guns and in 1906 they made another 50 Lyle guns. Barrel measures 24 ¼” overall with a 2 ½” bore. Carriage is constructed with wooden cheeks, bound with iron and with four original iron handles and mounting hardware. Carriage measures 30 ¼” overall in length, 10” wide and 9½” high.” Condition is excellent and is quite striking as it has been nicely polished. Barrel is in fine condition, and includes firing mechanism. Carriage nicely finished with old stain on wood surfaces, iron with older paint. Also includes reproduction quoin (Elevation Block). Wonderful patina, needs only light cleaning. This is an exceptionally rare chance to obtain this excellent set. $12,495. Reduced to $11,895. (no discounts apply). 

12139. (news poster) GREYHOUND OF SEA SINKS NANTUCKET LIGHTSHIP. “Illustrated Current News” May 18, 1934. 12” x 19”. This is a rare “Illustrated Current News” poster, dated May 18, 1934. It measures 12 x 19 inches, printed on glossy paper. These Illustrated Current News posters were published 3 times a week. Subscribers were typically stores or newsstands which posted them for viewing by customers. This poster includes photo images of the Steamship Olympic and the Nantucket Lightship. A collision between these two vessels left 7 men dead from the smaller lightship. At the upper center of the poster is a small inset map showing the location of the collision. The poster's headline and caption explain the incident: “GREYHOUND OF SEA SINKS NANTUCKET LIGHTSHIP. Moving through a dense fog at reduced speed, the giant steamship Olympic rammed and cut in two the tiny Nantucket Lightship at her post off the dangerous Nantucket Shoals. Of the crew of eleven only four were rescued….” The poster has the National Recovery Act eagle symbol in its bottom left corner, with the slogan, “NRA Member - U.S. - We Do Our Part.” The N.R.A. was a cornerstone of FDR’s New Deal policies which helped America recover from the Great Depression. Poster is in generally good condition, with some rippling of the paper from an old damp stain on the left side. Also light edge wear, four old pinholes and three short pieces of old tape on its reverse. A small piece of its upper left corner blank margin is missing as well. Even so, the poster remains in attractive condition, and would make a nice display piece matted and framed. (VG-). $68.

7234L. Flint , Willard. A HISTORY OF  U. S. LIGHTSHIPS. [U. S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office] 1993. 21p. 8VO. Soft wraps. Of the few persons steeped in the knowledge of this little known branch of the Lighthouse Service, Mr. Flint must surely be considered the leader. In the 1980’s Mr. Flint published the definitive historical record of all lightships and stations for the Coast Guard and this wonderful pamphlet stems from that endeavor. Filled with 29 detailed b/w photographs, this booklet chronicles some of the important history, disasters and life aboard these vessels. A great booklet. (VG).  $28. Reduced $22.

12146a. (copy photo) Lightship Charleston LV-34 c.1924. Crystal clear b/w photograph (not digital), taken of the original by a Bethany Beach, Delaware photographer from archive collections, shows lightship LV No. 34 Charleston  on station c. 1924 image. 8” x 10”. Clear, crisp. (F-). $16.

12151. [commemorative dish] An exceptionally rare, bright, gilt decorated commemorative dish featuring a beautiful clear, detailed color image of the “Lighthouse, Newport, Oregon.” c. 1900. One of only a few of this light that I have had, this fairly large oval dish has a large 3” full color image of the tall masonry light tower beside the 2-story keeper’s dwelling, barn and out-buildings. This detailed image shows the light tower and buildings the ocean in the background. This pretty display piece measures 7 ½” long and 4” wide and is enhanced by a decorative gilded and rose colored decorated edge. Nice bright, detailed image reminds one of a painting. Marked “Manufactured Expressly for H.F. Jenkins, Newport, Or.”. Quite clean, bright, only light wear, a beautiful display piece. (VG+). $44.

12150. (blueprint) Sketch Showing Location of Proposed Protecting Pier at Deer Island Light Station, Boston, Mass. October 4, 1902. 15" x 17".  Original blueprint #1432 includes good elevation view of caisson and light tower. Congress appropriated a total of $41,000 for the original lighthouse in 1886. A cylindrical caisson base for the lighthouse, 33 feet in diameter and 30 feet high, was sunk four feet into the gravel of the spit, in about six feet of water. The caisson was filled with concrete, with some space being left for a basement and cisterns. The cast-iron superstructure built on top of the caisson had four levels between the lantern and basement, including living quarters. The lighthouse was painted brown except for the lantern, which was painted black. The new light went into service on January 26, 1890. Due to damage and wear from the seas, the protective wall around the base shown in this plan was constructed in 1902 but in spite of the protective wall, the lighthouse continued to deteriorate. The roof over the lower gallery had to be removed in 1965. The keepers did their best with makeshift repairs, but the lighthouse's days as a staffed station were numbered by the early 1970s. Deer Island Light was abandoned on February 19,1972. Beginning on June 14, 1982, the old lighthouse was removed. Clean, crisp, perfect for framing. $235.

7440. Bishop, Eleanor C., PRINTS IN THE SAND - The U. S. Coast Guard Beach Patrol During World War II. Missoula . 1989. 1st. 82p. Soft wraps. Inscribed by the author. Chronicles the little known group that was the Coast Guard beach patrol. Made up of boys and men from 17 to 73 who protected the borders of the United States from enemy invasion after June 1942. With thousands of miles of coastline to protect, horses and dogs were put into action in many places. These “sailors on horseback” now receive long overdue credit for a job well done. Clean, tight. (VG+). $22.  Sold. 

      (Smith Island Lighthouse looking east, 1948. Not included)

12125. (photo) Mail Call, Smith Island Lighthouse, Washington c.1958. Clear, close original 8” x 10”press photo shows great detail of Coast Guardsmen M.L. Goff (station engineer), Richard Morris and Leo Bolina as they open recently delivered mail. The Smith Island Light was located on Smith Island in Washington state. In th emid 20th Century, the bluff on which the lighthouse stood suddenly began to erode. In the 1950s, when the bluff reached the front door of the lighthouse, the station was abandoned. Part of the lighthouse could be seen until Spring 1998 when the last remains toppled into the sea, leaving no structures left on the island. Before erosion toppled it into the sea, maritime author Jim Gibbs obtained permission from the Coast Guard to retrieve the lantern room, which is now part of the Skunk Bay Memorial lighthouse. Photo is b/w and includes date and identification on back. Dated October 15, 1958. Clear, close view. (VG+). $26.

12133. (photo) Edward Rowe Snow c.1972. Photo was taken in 1972 at the South Boston Library (in a snowstorm prior to going up to Fort Independence on Castle Island.) L to R are: Commissioner John Sears, Historian Al Swanson, Historian Captain Jerry Butler, Edward Rowe Snow, and Brigadier General Molla, assistant Adjutant general of Massachusetts at that time. 8” x 10”, clear, very small creases to two corners. (VG). $18.

12143. (photo album) Martha's Vineyard Gay Head Lighthouse Indians c.1920-1930’s. Vintage late 1920's small photo album with 20 original 2 ½” x 4 ¼” gelatin silver photographs of views on Martha's Vineyard. The photographs have the caption's and include Vineyard Haven ( Holme's Hole ), Cliffs at Gay Head (including distant views of the life-saving station), Indians selling Pottery Gay Head, Mrs. Curriers House School Street, Lighthouse Gay Head, Old Pease House built 1838, The House With The Cats, North Water Street, Herman Arey House South Water Street. This album is from the Arey Family on Martha’s Vineyard. In addition there are 8 loose post cards of the Edgartown area dating from the 1920’s – 1940’s. The album measures 6” x 8”and is intact save cover hinge split, loose. Overall clean, some edge wear. (G+). $65.

12137. (photo) Pamet River Life-Saving Station, Truro, Cape Cod c.1900.  The Pamet River station is one of nine stations which were erected on Cape Cod in 1872. Its position was "south three and one-half miles of Cape Highland (later Cape Cod) Light." The station stood on one of the high sand dunes which line the ocean shore in Truro village. When the station was built, it stood several hundred feet back from the high water mark, but the beach was continually eroded. "Sand bars with but a small depth of water over them fringe the shore at this station, extending seaward for several hundred yards, and the history of the station records many fearful disasters on them. It was on these dreaded bars that the terrible ocean tragedy, the wreck of the ship Jason occurred, and also where the three crafts, the Powwow, Miles Standish, and the E. Pavey, were wrecked at one time. The wreck of the Jason was one of the most appalling disasters that has ever taken place on the shores of Cape Cod, twenty-six lives being lost. Of the whole crew, the ship’s apprentice was the only person that managed to reach the shore. Of the whole number, thirty-four, aboard the three ships, twelve were lost." The station was of the Red House design. Records mention that the station received "extensive repairs and improvements" in 1888 when it was modified to enclose the porch and add more space, and somewhat less extensive improvements in 1910. The station was inactive in 1937 and thereafter. Photo measures 3 ½” x 5” on postcard paper. Clean, clear, light edge wear. Rare  image. (VG). $64.

12142. (photo) U.S. Life-Saving Station, Mantoloking, New Jersey c.1900. The Mantoloking station was built in 1872 "two and one-half miles south of the head of Barnegat Bay." Until June 1, 1883, this station was referred to as the Swan Point station. The 1898 Annual Report mentions that "new buildings adapted to present requirements are being erected in place of old and inadequate ones" at this station. In 1938, the station appeared in the records as an inactive station. The property was turned over to GSA in 1953. This photo was taken shortly after the new Jersey-pattern station was constructed in 1898. Photo measures 3 ½” x 5” on postcard paper. Clean, clear. Rare  image. (VG+). $96.

1040b. Short & Mason Aneroid Barometer. “Tycos” brand. Distributor “Paul A. Meyrowitz, Fifth Avenue, New York.” c.1900 – 1920’s. Face marked “SM” (Short & Mason) “Tycos London” “Compensated” on a silvered dial. All in black letters on a silvered dial. 5” diameter, with original glass, in brass case with brass besel. Barometer is clean and works well, some aging/discoloration to dial. With ring for hanging. Still a beautiful piece. (VG). $124.

2726-51. [stereoview] Wreck of the Bark W. F. Marshall on Nantucket, Massachusetts c.1877. By J. Freeman. Extremely rare view of the beautiful wooden vessel well up on the beach on the south side of the island near Mioxes Pond. She came ashore on the morning of March 9, 1877 in thick fog. The crew was safely landed by the crew of the Surfside Life-Saving Station but the vessel was considered a total loss. This extremely rare view shows great detail of the vessel with the breeches buoy hawser still in place, while onlookers survey the vessel. View is remarkably  clear and clean, with only some corner wear.  It is extremely difficult to find views of Nantucket shipwrecks and this view is certainly one of the better ones. (F-). $144 net.

2726-50. (stereoview) Main Street. Looking West up Main Street from Corner of Orange Street, Nantucket. c.1870’s by unknown photographer. Close, clear view shows great detail of Main Street and particularly the Pacific National Bank. Quite clear, some light soiling and corner wear. By unknown photographer on buff mount. (VG). $66.

2726-48. (stereoview) Shady Street View, Centre Street, Nantucket c.1870’s by J. Freeman. Great early view shows a lovely view down tree-lined but deserted Centre Street on Nantucket. A greatly detailed view, overall clean and clear, only very light foxing, some corner wear. (VG). $44.

2726-45. (stereoview) Sankaty Head Lighthouse, Nantucket. c.1873 by J. Freeman. Early close, clear view shows great detail of Nantucket ’s landmark light station on Sankaty Head. Early view with Fresnel First-order lens visible as keeper and visitors look on from tower gallery. Quite clear, only light foxing. Dated on back “August 9, 1873. 165 ft. above level of sea. Rare view. (VG). $58.

2726-49. (stereoview) Main Street. Looking West up Main Street from Corner of Orange Street, Nantucket. c.1870’s. By Kilburn Brothers. Close, clear view shows great detail of businesses along the road, including the Pacific National Bank. Quite clear, some light foxing, a few spots, light soiling. (VG). $78.

2726-47. (stereoview) Wreck of the Brig Poinsett on Nantucket September 3, 1870. by J. Freeman. Extremely rare view of the aftermath of the wreck as the beautiful 2-masted wooden vessel continued to be driven well up on the beach, later to break up, on the south side of the island near Nobadeer Pond. She came ashore on the morning of August 30, 1870 . She was heavily laden with sugar and all but 40 casks were lost when she soon broke up and became a total loss. It was said that fragments of the vessel were strewn along the beach for miles. This extremely rare view was taken before she broke up and shows good detail of the vessel as life-savers and citizens work to salvage her. View is clear, close, only light edge and corner wear. It is extremely difficult to find views of Nantucket shipwrecks. (VG+). $68. 

2726-46. (stereoview) View of the Athenaeum, Nantucket c.1870’s by C.H. Shute & Son, Edgartown. Great view from the front showing the Athenaeum with a large lantern on an iron arch over the gate and several unidentified men standing in front. A greatly detailed view, overall clean, light soiling to mount and some edge wear. (VG). $88.

Early Line Guns for Saving of Life available:

CT-05.  C. C. Galbraith & Son Inc.  USCG marked  Serial # 890  $2,220

CT-06.  Coston Signal Co.  USI marked  Serial #2576(currently listed on your site) $2,340

CT-07.  Hawley Smith  Serial #215  $2,220

CT-08.  Sculler Safety Corp.  Serial #3129 $2,220

CT-09a,b.  Two line gun projectiles that would go with any of the above guns $144 each

All are very early pieces in ideal condition for the collector.

12148. Wright, John Hardy. Provincetown Volume I. Arcadia. 1997. 128p. Soft wraps. 180 vintage photographs. On November 11, 1620, the Mayflower landed at the tip of Cape Cod, allowing the Pilgrims their first glimpse of America and their first contact with what was to become their new home. In the nearly four hundred years since their arrival, Provincetown, a charming and historic seaport town, has been an important port for fishing and whaling vessels, a favorite destination for vacationers, and a haven for those looking to make this unique community their home. Established in 1727, Provincetown first found prosperity in the trade and commerce of the fishing and whaling industries. At the turn of the twentieth century, however, the seaport’s beguiling charms and innate beauty were discovered by artists and writers who flocked to the seashore in successive droves. The more than two hundred black and white images in this delightful volume, chronicle the evolution of Provincetown—from the conception, building, and dedication of the Pilgrim Memorial Monument, America’s tallest granite monument, to the activities of residents and tourists at work and play in the three neighborhoods of this enchanting Cape Cod town. Superb photographs, well worth it for the photos alone. (M). $21.99.

12149. Wright, John Hardy. Provincetown Volume II. Arcadia. 1998. 128p. Soft wraps. 180 vintage photographs. By the beginning of the twentieth century, picturesque Provincetown–– incorporated in 1727––was no longer one of the major seaports of Massachusetts involved in the whaling industry. The fishing industry was still going strong due to the hard-working Portuguese fishermen, but commercial interests looked towards tourism as they had in many other towns and cities. Where once fishing shacks and warehouses dotted the shoreline off Commercial Street, comfortable and well-appointed guesthouses and restaurants emerged to support the growing numbers of day-trippers (many of whom arrived by ferry from Boston) and vacationers who were discovering this charming town at the very tip of Cape Cod. Tourists had visited Provincetown early on. Henry David Thoreau made three walking trips on Cape Cod around 1850, but it was not until the turn of the century that artists, followed by playwrights, authors, and musicians, realized they could live inexpensively in a community that fostered creativity. The artistic and literary culture of Provincetown was enhanced by hangers-on who enjoyed the Bohemian lifestyle. Counter-culture hippies of the 1960s blended in with the colorful personalities of those individuals who came to “P-town” to pursue an alternative lifestyle. Gays and Lesbians have transformed many aspects of the town—both architectural and cultural––in its evolution from a fishing village to a popular and prosperous year-round resort community. Provincetown Volume I focuses on the architecture and social history of this atypical town. This eagerly anticipated sequel features views of the shore, harbor, and ocean, the whaling and fishing industries, art and artists, playwrights and authors, entertainers, and alternative lifestyles.  Superb photographs, well worth it for the photos alone. (M). $21.99.

23262f. [SURFMAN CHECK) “ U.S. LIFE SAVING SERVICE DISTRICT No. 2 STATION No. 11  SURFMAN No. 6. [Cahoon’s Holllow or Nauset Station, Cape Cod] from c.1881 and is in good original condition. It measures 2.25 inches high by 2 inches wide. The check is made of brass and has an aged dark patina with pitting from years in sand and salt water. This U.S. Life Saving Service Surfman check came from the Cahoon’s Hollow or Nauset Life Saving Station (depending on year) on the Cape Cod coast (District #2, Station #11). The station was located on the outer beach, one of thirteen Cape Cod stations. The Nauset Coast Guard station still exists as past of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Check is in good but worn and weathered condition, with expected surface wear from repeated use but is still easily readable. A superb find. $1195.

8116b. AN UNSINKABLE SELF-RIGHTING LIFEBOAT AT LEWES, DE. Scientific American. June 25, 1887. 1p. Very nice article with large 6” x 9 ½” engraving describing the trials of the Norton Patent Lifeboat in a gale off the Life-Saving Station at Lewes, Delaware. Article describes in good detail the construction of this new model lifeboat with illustrations of longitudinal and transverse sections, and a large illustration of the boat at sea. In this trial, with the wind blowing 46 mph and in rough seas, to show the great stability of the boat, Captain Norton laid on more sail than normally would have been used, laying the boat over nearly on her beam ends, with the lee gunwale under water. Still she answered her helm well even in this position, and when the sail was eased off, the boat immediately righted. Detailed description of boat and trials. Full issue filled with articles of the day. (VG+). $68.

(chart) Original U.S. Coast Survey “Minot’s Ledge off Boston Harbor” 1853. Scale 1: 10,000. Measures 21” x 21”. With light original folds, tissue reinforced on back, hand colored. (VG). $265.

2282. Julian, R.W. MEDALS OF THE UNITED STATES MINT, THE FIRST CENTURY, 1792-1892. El Cajon, Ca: The Token and Medal Society, Inc. 1977 Cloth. No Dust Jacket Issued. First Edition. Quarto. 424 p., heavily illustrated. This is the essential reference for collectors of United States Mint Medals struck during the period. The work describes and illustrates United States Life Saving Medals, Massachusetts Humane Society, Shipwreck commemorative medals, Military & Naval Medals, Mint and Treasury Medals, Assay Commission pieces, Indian Peace Medals, Bache Coast Survey medal, Presidential Medals, Personal Medals, Commemorative Medals, School Medals, Agriculture, Mechanical, Scientific and Professional Medals , Marksmanship Medals, Religious and Fraternal Medals, and more. Includes information on the issuance and minting of the medal type, sizes, counterfeits, rarity, background, metal content and much more. An essential reference on the subject. (M). $68 net.

12135. Lesko, Barbara and Leonard Lesko. Lighthouse Life. Outskirts. 2009. 220p. Soft wraps. Ever want to live at a lighthouse? Crashing waves and howling winds were constants in the lives of the authors of Lighthouse Life once they became owners of an historic New England lighthouse. After living in its 1828 keeper’s cottage for 18 years, Barbara Lesko has written about the experience, both the challenges and delights, that she and her husband Leonard faced at Nayatt Point Light on Narragansett Bay. Once settled in, the Leskos faced many challenges: restoring a decayed beacon, keeping the tower painted, maintaining the granite seawall, and gardening on a wind swept, salt sprayed property. They suffered through ferocious winds and hurricanes, but enjoyed interacting with wildlife, watching the migrations of birds and the approach of weather fronts, as well as the ever changing view of sails and passing ships plus the fishing and oystering off their point. They were determined to bring a lighthouse lens back to the lantern room and had many experiences hunting for appropriate antique lighthouse equipment for the tower and finding period furnishings for the cottage. Nayatt Point Lighthouse went on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. Readers who love lighthouses or who follow nautical history, or who are involved with preservation of historic architecture or environmental issues, or even with collecting antiques will find much to enjoy within these pages. (M). $16.95. 

SR-465. C.C. Gailbraith Co Line Gun. Bronze. Please inquire. 

26315. Wermiel, Sara E. LIGHTHOUSES: Norton/Library of Congress Visual Sourcebooks in Architecture, Design & Engineering. New York. 2006. 384 p. DJ. This pictorial survey of the icon of steadfastness and strength: the American lighthouse, is the newest addition to the Norton/Library of Congress series. This abundantly illustrated book conveys the romance and beauty of lighthouses and beacons while explaining the development of the forms, materials, architecture, and engineering of their structure: wood, masonry, cast-iron plate, on- and off-shore skeletal, caisson, and reinforced concrete. It covers lighthouses from all parts of the United States from the late eighteenth century to the 1940s, when control of lighthouses was transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard. Numerous images of lighthouses from coast to coast provide examples of striking design and setting, celebrate technological achievement and the work of important engineers, and include associated structures such as keepers' quarters, fog signal buildings, boathouses and boat railroads, cistern buildings, barns, and workshops, as well as interiors and working details of the light mechanisms. With over 1200 illustrations, many of rarely seen views, this is sure to be one of the better books this year. Includes CD-ROM containing all of the images shown in the book for even better viewing. (M). Publisher’s price $75. Reduced $64.

2789. THEY HAD TO GO OUT – True Stories of America’s Coastal Life Savers From The Pages of “Wreck & Rescue Journal”. Gwinn. 2007. Forward by Fred Stonehouse. 208p. Soft wraps. They Had to Go Out represents an unprecedented gathering works of talented historians working in the field of Life Saving Service history, taken from the pages of Wreck & Rescue Journal. Included are the writings of Ralph Shanks, Fred Stonehouse, Dennis L. Noble, Maurice Gibbs, and John Galluzzo.The stories reach from Massachusetts to Michigan to Washington, covering some of the accounts of bravado and selflessness of the men of the U. S. Life Saving Service, shedding more light on perhaps the most exciting aspect of America’s maritime history. (M). Published at $16.95. Reduced $12.95.

26211. LaGuardia-Kotite, Martha J. So Others May Live – Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers: Saving Lives, Defying Death. Guilford. 2006. 208p. DJ. So Others May Live is the untold story of the U.S. Coast Guard’s quiet but resolute rescue swimmers. From deep ocean caves on the Oregon coast to the panicked and chaotic streets of post-Katrina New Orleans, here are their stunningly heroic stories and the greatest maritime rescues attempted since the program began in 1985. These feats, told through the eyes of the heroes, reveal an understanding of how and why the rescuer, with flight crew assistance, risks his or her own life to reach out to save a stranger. The book covers diverse environments: oceans, hurricanes, oil rigs, caves, sinking vessels, floods, and even Niagara Falls. It is truly a can’t-put-it-down collection of accounts. (M). ). Published at $22.95.  Reduced $16.95.

22245. Bailey, John. SENTINEL OF THE JERSEY CAPE – THE STORY OF THE CAPE MAY LIGHTHOUSE. Medford. 2001. 119 p. DJ. This historical account of the famous Cape May Lighthouse is an intriguing blend of historical observation and personal sentiment. With its readable narrative, beautiful photographs, and nine appendices including Cape May Lighthouse at a glance: its chronology and geography, an inspection report from 1851, and a history of its keepers, this book provides both a fascinating history of the lighthouse and a glimpse into an era and way of life that has long passed. Includes a narrative of the towers and grounds, a section on the keepers, the station during the Coast Guard years, and much more. (M). Published at $22.95. Our price $21.45.

4/1/12

Do you know where this is ?. 

I recently picked up this c.1920-1930 photo of this unidentified U.S. lighthouse. Note the tall flag mast to the left. There is also a U.S. Life-Saving station nearby as evidenced by the surfboat crew launching for the daily drill. There is also another double-ended boat sitting on the dune top. Photo measures 3 1/2" x 5 1/2". 

The first person to identify this location and I can confirm it, this original photo is yours free. 

Now Available: 

United States Lighthouse Service & Lifesaving Service. Heavy weight 10 ounce mugs. $8.95 each. 

20397. (mounted photo) U.S. Light-House Establishment, Lighthouse Tender Crew c.1890's.  Rare early view of the officers and men, and the District Inspector posing on deck. Unusually clear view measures 6” x 7 ½” on 8” x 10” mount, and shows great detail of the men in their uniforms as well as the deck and equipment. The officers include the Captain and Chief Engineer (note propeller insignia on right arm). The remaining crewman are in working clothes. The District Inspector is in the derby hat. Rare early view, not dated, unknown tender or location. Clean, clear, only some edge wear and soiling to mount. Superb view. (VG). $245.

12121. (mounted photo in frame) U.S. Life-Saving Station, Avalon, New Jersey c.1900. Close view of the Duluth-type life-saving station south of Ludlam Beach lighthouse. Built in 1894, the station was similar to many others of the period built mostly in Massachusetts and New Jersey. The Avalon crew won four gold life-saving medals for their 1912 rescue of the crew of the steamer Margaret. Unusually clear, large view includes the entire station shortly after it was constructed as the Keeper looks on (standing next to flag mast). Photo measures 7 ½” x 9 ½” in original 14 ½” x 16 ½” walnut frame. Great detail. Beautiful original piece. Overall clean, very good condition, only light wear to frame. (VG). $225. 

12124. (photo) Skunk Bay Lighthouse, Washington c.1963. Clear, close original 8” x 10”press photo shows great detail of the private Skunk Bay lighthouse near Hainsville, Washington. Built by noted lighthouse author James Gibbs in 1965, the light tower sits 220 feet above the sea. The tower includes a “double bulls-eye lens” from the Point Robinson lighthouse,  mounted in the original U.S. Light-House Establishment lantern room that was once on the Smith Island lighthouse. The tower was built from the plans for the Mukilteo lighthouse. Mr. Gibbs applied for status as a private aid to navigation and passed inspection. The light was changed to fixed-red and reduced in power, but the Skunk Bay Lighthouse has been operational ever since. In 1971 the Skunk Bay Lighthouse Association was organized and purchased the structure. The group enlarged the structure to include two bedrooms, a bathroom, a living/dining room and a loft. The room from the original lighthouse was converted into a kitchen, and the completed structure was dedicated in 1982. During the remodeling, a 1940 Coast Guard fog bell was added to the property. Photo is b/w and includes date and description on back. Dated August 18, 1963. Clear, close view. (VG+). $26.

21377c. [document] U. S. Department of Commerce, Lighthouse Service, Keeper’s Annual Property Return, Requisition, and Receipt Form No. 30. 24 pages. 8” x 10”. Pink soft wraps. Lengthy form contains spaces for all items needed by the Keeper and is would be filled out in his hand indicating the quantity of each item on hand, received, and used during the year. Each and every possible item is noted, from all sizes of brushes, to boats, burners, lamps, wicks, tools, deflectors, furniture, dinnerware, lamp fittings, paint, books and forms, and much more. Listing covers 24 pages and is a must for researchers working to properly furnish your lighthouse or museum exhibit. Clean, crisp, as new save name in ink top corner. (VG+). 125.

12120. (keeper appointment letter) Henry Hill, Whitehall Narrows Stake Light No. 14. Lake Champlain, NY. c.1887.  Superb original keeper appointment letter signed in hand by the Acting Secretary of the Treasury, appointing Henry Hill as Keeper of the Whitehall Narrows Stake Light No. 14 (he was already keeper of stake lights Nos. 15 and 16),  at a salary of $320 per annum, increased from $240. Dated September 27, 1887. Letter reads: “Treasury Department Office of the Secretary Washington, D. C. September 27, 1887. Mr. Henry Hill, Care of the Light-house Board. Sir: You are hereby appointed keeper of the new stake-light No. 14, Whitehall Narrows, New York in addition to lights Nos. 15 and 16, and your compensation increased from two hundred and forty dollars to three hundred and twenty dollars per annum, to take effect from the lighting of the new beacon. Respectfully yours, Hugh S. Thompson ~ Acting Secretary ….” Letter is on original stationery of the Light-House Establishment and is written in hand. Also bears the red stamp of the Light-House Inspector, 3rd. LH Dist., and the stamp of the Light-House Board. Overall size 12” x 17”. Fine early piece. Clean save two spots, light original folds with some wear. (VG). $195. 

2726-44. (stereoview) Street View, Centre Street “Petticoat Row”, .Nantucket by J. Freeman c.1870’s. Rare 19th C. stereoview looking north on Centre Street “Petticoat Row” as seen from Main Street. Note people walking around and large flag mast visible on right. A greatly detailed view, very good condition, clear, light soiling, light edge wear. (VG). $112.

4688b. GILLILAND’S DIOPTRIC CRYSTAL LENSES. Scientific American. May 14, 1853. Full issue. 1½ page article with large front page illustration of revolving lens apparatus for first order lighthouse. In this rare early account, Gilliland expounds on his improved process of manufacturing complete lenses, molded of pure flint glass crystal rather than the older method of using glass segments. This method was soon adopted and has been in use ever since. Wonderful large detailed illustration of lens and revolving apparatus. Some foxing mainly to edges but doesn’t adversely affect the overall impression. Nice early work, good reference. (VG-). $38.

12128. (photo) Boston Light Station c.1960’s. Large 8” x 10” photo provide unusually close, clear views of the light station on Boston’s Little Brewster Island. View includes the tall light tower, fog signal building and oil house, taken from the water. Superb view, clear and clean. Copy photo or digital print. (VG+). $6.

2726-41. (stereoview) Sunny Street View, Liberty Street Street, Nantucket by J. Freeman c.1870’s. Rare 19th C. stereoview looking down Liberty Street. View shows a pair of horses and wagon filled with finely dressed women and children, stopped in front of a classic Nantucket house. Note the small boy poking his head out of the wagon right below the driver. A greatly detailed view, good condition, clean, clear, light edge wear and two pin holes in corners of mount. (VG+). $108.

12114. (photo) Lighthouse at Pemaquid Point, Maine by Frank E Claes c.1950's. An old photograph from the collection of Frank E Claes (1910-2000) of Camden Maine. This wonderful photo of “Pemaquid Point Lighthouse” was taken in the mid 20th Century. Photographer Frank E. Claes was formerly of Camden, Me,, but by the 1980’s resided in Orland, Me. Claes, a very accomplished photographer, had opened a portrait studio in Camden in 1950. He also copied and made negatives for people, as well as for Historical Societies, Museums, and libraries. He was from the old school, keeping a copy of the negatives of the photos, so that people went back to him for copies. He specialized in reproducing copies of Maritime history, including photos of many ships. He said that he held the largest collection of Maritime negatives of anyone in the state. His photos have been featured in museums and in books throughout New England. Photo measures 8” x 10” and shows great detail of the stone light tower with the ocean beyond. Clear, close view. (VG+). $32.

      (Pres. Arthur)

12111. (document) U.S. Light-House Establishment Form No. 5. Salary as Keeper, Van Wies Point Lighthouse, Albany, New York c.1872. Early document details salary paid to Keeper William Welch in the amount of $40 ($160 per annum).  Dated September 30, 1872. Document is signed in hand by Keeper William Welch and by Chester A Arthur as Superintendent of Lights, who would become the 21st President of the United States (1881–1885). (Note: Letters signed as Chester A. Arthur are quite uncommon and thus valuable. A very distrusted President when he entered office after the assassination of Garfield but very respected after leaving office. His autographs generally sell for up to $3000!) The Van Wies Point Lighthouse no longer exists. The light consisted of a stone tower with lantern showing a fixed white light (1889) 21 feet in height. It was established in 1854 on a stone dike on the west side of Hudson River, near Albany. It's claim to fame was that it's keeper, William Welch served there for 52 years, from 1858 untill his death in 1910. Up until that time he was the oldest lighthouse keeper in the service, having died at 93. This document may be the only surviving example from this lighthouse. Document is in very good condition, clean, original light folds. Measures 6 x 8 ¼”. (VG+). $78.

12109. Fox, Lois Ann. Wild Waves and Isolation: Memories of a Childhood on Centre Island Lighthouse, Foveaux Strait. Published by the Author. 2003. 70p. Soft wraps. Illustrated. “Wild Waves and Isolation” is a small slice of New Zealand’s heritage, of a way of life that has now passed. It is a snapshot of a lighthouse keeper and his family who enjoyed the happier times and endured the rigors that island life bestows upon those who venture forth. Follow as the Aitchison family share their isolation and experiences of three years keeping the light in the 1950’s. Ex-library with stamps and markings, wrappers laminated in clear plastic. Quite rare. (VG). $54.

10197b. [photo] Captain William Wincapaw Dropping Christmas Packages at The Graves Light Station. c. 1937. Large 11”x14” b/w news Wirephoto photograph shows Mr. William Wincapaw in his rented plane dropping a Christmas package at Boston’s Graves Lighthouse for the Keeper’s family. Each year Captain Wincapaw readied packages for their well known yearly Christmas airdrops to remote lighthouses and Coast Guard stations. In 1926, Captain William Wincapaw began the tradition of dropping Christmas gift packages from his plane to remote lighthouse families. Later, author and historian Edward Rowe Snow would continue the “Flying Santa” tradition, which continues to this day by local groups. The caption in this photo notes that …”Captain Wincapaw will “bomb” some 130 lighthouses north of Boston with these Christmas bundles. The famous ‘mercy flier’ was at the controls while his son, William Jr., was serving as ‘bomber’.” Photo is clean and clear and quite a nice close view including Wincapaw’s plane, the light tower, and more. 1" tear at top. Includes news caption on the bottom. (VG). $54.

12118. Buzzards Bay Lightship – Light Towers to Replace USCG Lightships. All Hands Magazine. December 1960. 64p. Soft wraps. Half page article discusses the trend toward replacing lightships with skeleton structures – the first two being Buzzards Bay and Brenton Reef stations beginning in 1961. With two photos. Magazine is intended for all Naval personnel and contains numerous articles on Navy life, new equipment, decorations and more. Clean, tight. (VG+). $20.

10127b. [training manual] U. S. Coast Guard. AIDS TO NAVIGATION TRAINING MANUAL - LIGHTHOUSES AND LIGHTSHIPS. c.1953. 394 p. Soft wraps. Post binding. Detailed manual used for training of personnel in the operation and maintenance of the lamps and apparatus used in lighthouses and light vessels. Complete with hundreds of diagrams, illustrations and photographs. These are a “must” if you are restoring these items, are a collector or maintain a light station as they include many early items including equipment, sizes, lanterns, flashers, burners, pilots, sunvalve, fittings, tools, lamp types, lamp changers, flashers, focusing, installation, major and minor lights, single and double tank incandescent oil vapor lamps, tanks, pumps, cleaning lamps, accessories and tools, mantles, relief valves, Aladdin lamps, oil wick lanterns, triangular oil lanterns, post lanterns, lens lanterns, lamps, buoy types, lighting, sound apparatus, maintenance, whistles, gongs, bells, percussion units, CO2 bell striker, electric solenoid bell striker, diaphone, automatic siren, diaphragm horns, reed horns, coding, installation, control, theory of fog signals, and more. Chapters include: Light Sources, Lenses & Revolving Apparatus; Electric Lamps & Apparatus; Incandescent Oil Vapor Lamps & Apparatus; Fog Signals; Fog Signal Coding Devices; Basic Engine Room Operation; E.S.D.C. Controller, Radiobeacon Operation & Maintenance;  Radiobeacon System and Equipment, Radio Telephone Procedures, and more. Excellent reference. Contents clean, tight, wraps light wear and soiling. (VG). $185.

8391. Drysdale, William., THE BEACH PATROL - A Story of the Life-Saving Service. W. A. Wilde Company, Boston . 1897. 318p. With five illustrated plates. Gilt embossed decorative wraps. All aspects of the work of the life-savers is described in this fictional tale of the men at the “Great Harbor Life-Saving Station” in New England . Sixteen year old Tom examines the equipment, from the operation of the Coston flare, to the contents of the Life-Saving Service portable library and assists with numerous rescues as we follow him through his adventure. Quite good descriptions, with great detail. An extremely early, rare Life-Saving Service novel. Quite clean, light toning, tight save one plate loose. Wraps clean, bright, light edge wear.  (VG+). $128.

880. Rand, Edward A., A CANDLE IN THE SEA. New York . 1892. 377p. Another of the author’s extremely scarce titles about the work of the U. S. Light-House Service. After visiting a Lighthouse and Life-Saving Station and examining various reports, the author became impressed with the work of the hardy crews. Herein the author presents a novel for young people of the brave men who watch the sea while we are sleeping, and whose generous daring may well provoke us to courage and self-sacrifice in other spheres. An interesting tale of the beach, of shipwrecks, the light-house keeper’s lives and their lives and their personalities. This is one of the few times in 24 years that I have been able to find this title. Being extremely rare, this is a most desirable title. Contents clean save light toning, tight, hinges becoming weak. With nicely illustrated binding, edges worn, some marks and soiling, spine sunned. Extremely difficult to find. (G+). $68.

12116. (framed photo & newspaper article) Boston Harbor Narrows ["Bug"] Lighthouse c.1880. Superb framed piece includes large early cabinet photo 8” x 10” of Boston Harbor Narrows ["Bug"] Lighthouse at low tide. At the railing can be seen the keeper’s wife posing for the camera. Built in 1856, Bug Light stood until 1929 to warn mariners of the dreaded Harding’s Ledge, four miles to the southeast. The lighthouse constructed was a screw-pile type on iron “legs” (thus its nickname "Bug Light"), with a hexagonal wooden dwelling with galvanized metal roof and lantern perched on top. This lighthouse design was quite unusual at the time and was the first such design constructed in New England . The lantern was about thirty-five  feet above sea level, and when a sea captain brought Bug Light in range with Long Island Head Light, he knew that he was clear of Harding’s Ledge and could safely enter the harbor.  Also included within the frame is a June 1929 newspaper article describing the fire at the lighthouse. In the early summer of 1929, Keeper Thomas Small continued his summer project of scraping and removing loose paint from the wooden lighthouse structure in preparation for repainting. June 7th dawned sunny and clear, a fine day to continue his work. A common method of removing paint at the time (and still today in some areas) was to use a kerosene burning torch to heat the aged paint sufficiently so that it could be scraped off. As you can imagine, this method required extreme care and was fraught with an obvious danger – a spark finding its way under the siding to smolder and break out in fire at some later time. As noon approached and Keeper Small continued his work, he was soon dismayed to see wisps of smoke begin to push out from within the wall. Keeper Small attempted to extinguish the growing fire with water that he kept on hand for just such an occurrence, but the fire continued to grow within the walls, protected by its water-resistant siding. The fire was quickly sighted by the Quarantine Station across the bay, which notified the Boston Fire Department. Within minutes Boston Fireboat No. 44 was dispatched and underway. Small continued his now frantic efforts as debris fell all around him. One report indicates that the “falling fog bell missed him by a few inches.” Within 15 minutes the entire lighthouse was in flames. Keeper Small finally was forced to retreat. He managed to throw a few belongings into the station boat and narrowly escaped with his life. Despite a rapid response by the fireboat, by the time she made the seven-mile trip to the lighthouse, it  was all but consumed. Following the fire, the crew of the Lighthouse Tender Mayflower placed a gas-operated lighted bell buoy at the site. This rare photo is striking, with close details and unusually large in size. There is some older damage to the photo – the emulsion has one crack and has lifted a bit, otherwise clean, clear and close view. The pair have been beautifully matted in acid-free mat and framed. Will enhance any room. Extremely rare. (VG). $325. 

22461. "A Catalogue of the Civil and Mechanical Engineering Designs,1741-1792 of James Smeaton, F.R.S. preserved in the Library of The Royal Society " ;By and Published by the Newcomen Society (Courier Press) London. 1950. 186 Pages of Text and Illustrations chronicling the civil and mechanical engineering designs of John Smeaton. Born June 8, 1724 , Austhorpe, Yorkshire, Eng. died Oct. 28, 1792 , Austhorpe, this English engineer is noted for his all-masonry lighthouse on Eddystone reef off Plymouth, Devon, and as the founder of the civil-engineering profession in Great Britain. Included are His Designs or Discussions for the: Windmill, Watermill, Mill, Fire Engine, Bridges, Buildings, Canal Works, Sluices, Harbors, and River Navigation designs. The numbers of drawings in the possession of the Newcomen Society by this noted engineer number over 1200. This is an attempt to catalogue many of his drawings by subject and title and gives the reader a further insight into the scope of Smeaton’s work. Stiff paper covers, some tears on 3 or 4 pages not affecting the text, light wear. (VG-).  $44. Reduced $32.

6477m. Stevenson, Robert Louis. [A FAMILY OF ENGINEERS] THE WORKS OF ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON. Volume X. New York 1906. 462 pp. First published in Vol. XVIII of the Edinburgh Edition of Stevenson’s works in 1896, this edition of “A Family of Engineers” is contained in a set of his works. This sought after piece on the history of the Stevenson family of lighthouse engineers remains quite difficult to find. Included is a history of their service to the Northern Lights, and the building of Bell Rock Light. This copy has a gilt top edge; not all do. Front hinge lose, contents quite clean, tight. Spine chipped at top and on label. Still, a nice addition to a scarce Stevenson library. (G+)  $54. Reduced $34.

7415. Bunting, W. H. MAINE AT WORK: A SAMPLE OF HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS, 1860-1920. Gardiner, Maine. 1997. 384pp. With 225 b/w photographs. Any of you who have seen and enjoyed Mr. Bunting’s previous work Portrait of a Port: Boston 1852-1914, will surely enjoy this companion piece. Once again the author puts together a collection of astonishing historic photographs accompanied by narrative captions. Here the author leads the eye with extraordinary skill as we view coastwise cargo schooners, traveling from island to island by scow, a lumber batteaux shooting rapids, granite-cutting operations, long teams of oxen hauling a building through Waldoboro, a mowing gang, train wrecks, lumber camps, and much more. A grand collection for lovers of Maine, the coast, New England or just an earlier time. (M) Available in Paperback for $35. Reduced to $26.

7415. Bunting, W. H. A DAY’S WORK: A SAMPLE OF HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS, 1860-1920. Part I. Gardiner , Maine . 1997. 384pp. With 225 b/w photographs. Any of you who have seen and enjoyed Mr. Bunting’s previous work Portrait of a Port: Boston 1852-1914, will surely enjoy this companion piece. Once again the author puts together a collection of astonishing historic photographs accompanied by narrative captions. Here the author leads the eye with extraordinary skill as we view coastwise cargo schooners, traveling from island to island by scow, a lumber batteaux shooting rapids, granite-cutting operations, long teams of oxen hauling a building through Waldoboro, a mowing gang, train wrecks, lumber camps, and much more. A grand collection for lovers of Maine , the coast, New England or just an earlier time. (M) Available in Paperback for $35 Reduced to $26 or Hardcover $55 Reduced to $42.

20370. Bunting, W. H. A DAY’S WORK: A SAMPLE OF HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS, 1860-1920. Part II. Gardiner , Maine . 2000. 384pp. Soft cover. With 225 b/w photographs. Any of you who have seen and enjoyed Mr. Bunting’s previous works Portrait of a Port: Boston 1852-1914, and A Day’s Work: A Sample of Historic Photographs, 1860-1920, Part I, will surely enjoy this companion piece. Once again the author puts together a collection of astonishing historic photographs accompanied by narrative captions. Here the author leads the eye with extraordinary skill as we view coastwise cargo schooners, traveling from island to island by scow, a lumber batteaux shooting rapids, granite-cutting operations, ship building, and much more. A grand collection for lovers of Maine , the coast, New England or just an earlier time. (M). Published at $35. Reduced to $26.

23543a,b. Szarkowski, John and Richard Benson. A MARITIME ALBUM – 100 Photographs and their Stories. Newport News. 1997. 245 p. Soft wraps. A wonderful photographic tribute to the sea and the human activities associated with it, and an insight into the life of a mariner. This fascinating book features 100 historical photographs taken between the years 1859 and 1956 that depict the relationships of mariners with their vessels and the sea. Superb vintage photographs chronicle a fragment of the mariner's experience over the past 200 years - shipbuilding, the making of a wooden skiff, commercial fishing and whaling, amateur sailing, deep-sea diving, naval encounters, and much more. In his introduction, John Szarkowski shares his artistic rationale for selecting the particular images that appear in this book. Benson's essays, which accompany the photographs, unify image and story in a vignette of time and place, of historical, societal, and individual meaning. Excellent vintage views and accounts make fine reading. (VG+). $28.

5461n. Lombard, Asa Cobb Paine. EAST OF CAPE COD . Cuttyhunk. 1976. 157 pp. The author tells the stories of ships and shipwrecks and particularly of the Life-Savers of this dangerous area. The author incorporated into this account numerous photographs and records of his grandfather, United States Life-Saving Service Warrant Officer  [1885-1921] Edward Everett Lombard who was stationed at the Cahoon’s Hollow station.  Extremely well illustrated with over 80 wonderful early photographs, one of the better accounts of the Life-Saving Service. The glass slides from which the pictures are reproduced were made from 1885 to 1900. Lombard, along with his Cahoon’s Hollow companion, Eugene Young, gave lectures at the time in the eastern part of  Massachusetts describing the wrecks that occurred on Cape Cod from Monomoy to  Provincetown , explaining how rescue attempts were made, and the operations of the United States Life Saving Service. The proceeds from the lectures were used to buy Station personnel the necessary extras needed to perform their duties — equipment not provided by the government. Chapters include the Wreck of the Jason, History of the Life-Saving Service, the Lifesaver’s Tools, Lifeboat Drill, Communications, Smuggler, Restoring the Apparently Drowned, Shipwrecks, the Way of the Wreckers, and more. Becoming scarce, this has always been one of the two best on  Cape Cod ’s life-savers but so far has not received proper recognition. Clean, tight, light sunning to wraps. (VG+).  $48.

1st Edition 1902:

6581v. Dalton , J. W., THE LIFE SAVERS OF CAPE COD . 1902. 1st. Chatham , Mass. 159p. Soft wraps. Clean, tight, nice copy. Profusely illustrated with over 100 fine b/w photographs. Certainly the finest and most complete history of the Life-Saving Service and its 13 posts on the outer reaches of Cape Cod . Looks at each of the 13 stations individually including their men, equipment, construction and modifications of the buildings, rescues, and much more. Excellent reading on the subject, wonderful photographs. Clean, tight, light wear to wraps, paper loss in last advertising page. First edition quite scarce and most desirable. (VG).    $98.

Later Edition:

2790. Dalton , J. W., THE LIFE SAVERS OF CAPE COD . 1902. Reprint 1991. Parnassus. 155p. Soft wraps. Profusely illustrated with over 100 fine b/w photographs, illustrations and maps, this is certainly the finest and most complete history of the Life-Saving Service and its 13 posts on the outer reaches of Cape Cod ever written. The Life Savers of Cape Cod brings to life a unique age of heroism along the treacherous shores of Olde Cape Cod. In 1902, writer J. W. Dalton set out to visit each of the thirteen U. S. Life-Saving Service stations on Cape Cod, from Wood End in the north to Monomoy Point in the south. His book, The Life Savers of Cape Cod, published late that year, remains the most minutely detailed account of station life at the high point of the service's existence. Dalton's research covers not only the history of the service and descriptions of each station, but also provides a paragraph on each and every keeper and surfman then serving along the Cape's seashore. Also included is information on the men, equipment, construction and modifications of the buildings, rescues,  even entries on the names and habits of the stations' pets. Included too is the account of Keeper Seth Ellis of the Monomoy station, lone survivor of the life-saving disaster of the previous March 17.  Excellent reading on the subject, wonderful photographs. (M).  $9.95.

28122. [15 glass slide set] The Life-Savers of Cape Cod. c.1902. In 1902 Dalton wrote probably the finest and most complete history of the Life-Saving Service and its 13 stations on the outer reaches of Cape Cod . In it he looked at each of the 13 stations individually including their men, equipment, construction and modifications of the buildings, rescues, and much more. It was profusely illustrated with over 100 fine b/w photographs. During this period, surfman Asa Cobb Paine Lombard along with his Cahoon’s Hollow companion, Eugene Young, gave lectures at the time in the eastern part of Massachusetts describing the wrecks that occurred on Cape Cod from Monomoy to Provincetown , explaining how rescue attempts were made, and the operations of the United States Life Saving Service. The proceeds from the lectures were used to buy Station personnel the necessary extras needed to perform their duties — equipment not provided by the government. In addition, other surfmen gave similar lectures, all using similar b/w projection slides using these images from Dalton’s book and others. This lot of 15 glass projection slides is from such a set used for these lectures. Crystal clear views include: Surfman E. S. Dyer, Pamet River LSS, oldest surfman in the U.S.L.S.S.; wreck Katie J. Barrett breaking up on beach; ship A. S. Ropes dismasted off Provincetown; Highland LSS crew; wreck Panchita driven ashore in Provincetown; High Head LSS; High Head LSS crew; Wood End LSS crew; Nauset LSS crew; Monomoy LSS; Keeper Seth Ellis, Keeper Monomoy LSS; Keeper Joseph Kelley, Monomoy Point LSS; Schooner ashore; wreckage on beach; dismasted schooner. The views are superb and crystal clear, perfect for printing or projecting in a proper projector. Slides measures 3 ¼” x 4” and presents a superb, clear image. Two slides have crack but are intact, remaining near fine. (VG+). $445. Reduced $395.

9497c. Coast Guard. CIRCA 1915 – RETROSPECTIVE: The United States Coast Guard. 1979. 64p. Soft Wraps. A wonderful presentation of 31 vintage photographs chronicling the origins of the Coast Guard, from the Revenue Cutter Service, Life-Saving Service and later the Lighthouse Service. All photos are early, each presented with a brief description and are wonderfully presented on white stock with wide margins and border. Includes photos of lifeboat crews; surfmen with beach apparatus, stations, etc.; lighthouse keepers at Punta Gorda; Tongue Point Lighthouse Depot c.1910; an officer aboard the Lighthouse Tender Sequoia; Revenue Cutter Bear; Light Vessel No. 76; post lights; lens apparatus; fog signal apparatus; mounted beach patrol; and much more. A most worthwhile collectible with superb early photographs. Light wear, light soiling to wraps. (VG). $36. Reduced $24.

8341rr,xx,ww. (18) [plate shown bottom center] United States Coast Guard. Scarce original early United States Coast Guard dinner plate manufactured in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some ‘stag’ stations. Of heavy white institutional type china. Plate is of the earlier pattern with the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim. Bottom labeled “Jackson China 1942 [or 1948], Nathan Straus or other”. Plate is large, with little if any wear, free of any cracks or major defects. Plate is round, and measures 10” in diameter. A beautiful example of this  early pattern. (VG+).  $59 each. Reduced $46 each.

8341uuu. [gravy boat] United States Coast Guard. Bottom labeled “Nathan Straus & Sons, New York”. This pattern is an intermediate pattern which includes one turquoise stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin brown stripes. Below the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem in turquoise with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. Large bright gravy boat measures 8 ¾” long by 4 ¾” high. With little if any wear, piece is exceptionally clean and bright, free of any cracks or major defects, beautiful piece. As nice as they come. (F). $118. Reduced $88.

• 

27401. (architectural drawing) U. S. Coast Guard. Chesapeake Light Station, Cape Henry, Va. c.1964. Full size original copy measures 29” x 40” and shows structural elevation views of the  tall “Texas tower” type light structure. View shows north and west elevations and pile detail. The tower is located halfway between the northern and southern channels leading into Chesapeake Bay, about 14 miles away from Cape Henry. It was built in 1965 and is 120 feet high. The 33-inch concrete-filled steel pilings were driven 180 feet into the ocean floor. The actual light tower stands 37 feet above the helicopter deck. The station was automated in 1989. Great for research or framing. Blue on buff, period blueprint copy.  (VG). $28. Reduced $22. 

27436. (document) U. S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Lighthouses. Circular Letter No. 147. Political Activity. February 6, 1920. One page typed circular reminds keepers regarding the statutory inhibition against certain forms of political activity during campaigns, running for office, etc.  This particular circular was evidently intended for certain keepers, as it is receipted in ink by “J.P.B.” Principal Keeper, and the two assistant keepers and dated. Circular is signed (by stamp) "G R Putnam", the Commissioner of Lighthouses. Overall clean, intact, light wear. (VG). $78.

2840. (souvenir dish) U. S. Life-Saving Station, North Scituate, Mass. c.1900. Lovely gilt decorated bright white round dish featuring a large, detailed full color image of the early Bibb #2 Type life saving station on the beach at North Scituate, Massachusetts. Backmarked “Made in Germany for M. G. Seaverns & Co., North Scituate, Mass.” Clean, no cracks or checks, light wear, a very detailed, unusual presentation with bright image for your display. (VG+). $118. Reduced $88.

(shown when you frame it.) 

25377. (lithographed print) The Nantucket Lightship by noted Nantucket artist Marshall DuBock. Print is copyright by Nantucket Lithographers Ltd. c.1977 and measures a full 22" by 34". Marshall DuBock has always been fascinated by the inimitable history, personality, and grace of Nantucket Island . DuBock continued his art education at the Portland School of Fine and Applied Art and in Florence , Italy , and throughout the years has carefully developed a realistic watercolor style that distinguishes him as one of Nantucket Island 's most beloved artists. In 1979 he opened The Nantucket Gallery at 23 Federal Street , which offers original watercolors and signed, limited-edition prints. A year-round resident, the artist continues to combine current visual impressions with years of memories abetted by his extensive knowledge of Island history, and as a result he captures the very spirit of the Island in his watercolor paintings, which are known, collected, and loved all over the country. Print is printed on 80-lb. watercolor paper under the direct supervision of the artist. Only a few prints remain available from the artist.  Print is unframed, shipped rolled. $425 each. 

12108. (photo) Coast Guard Keepers with families, Point Robinson Light Station, Washington c.1969. Clear, close original 8” x 10” press photo shows good detail of Coast Guardsmen BM1 Dennis Stitzer and EN2 Floyd Bowan, with their families in front of the station. Attached newspaper article describes the station and the life there. Photo is b/w and includes date and description with newspaper article on back. Dated November 15, 1969. Clear, close view. (VG+). $38.

2096. Light-House Board, INSTRUCTIONS TO LIGHT-KEEPERS AND MASTERS OF LIGHT-HOUSE VESSELS. GPO. 1902. 104 pp includes 39 plates. Nicely photo-reproduced by the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Assoc., Michigan , 1989. Available in hardcover with DJ. This is a MUST for anyone interested in the subject. Contains a wealth of information, particularly in the plates for use in identifying lamps. Includes complete Instructions for Light-Keepers in Stations with Two or More Keepers, Light Stations With One Keeper, Keepers of Light-Vessels, Management of Lens Lights and Disposition of Lamps and Illuminating Apparatus, Management of Mechanical Lamps, Revolving Machinery, trimming of wicks, morning duties, and much more. Includes all aspects of station and apparatus maintenance. A very complete and important document. Excellent value for the price. (M). Hardcover. $21.95. Softcover $17.95.

12104b. Richardson, Evelyn M. B… Was for Butter and Enemy Craft. Halifax, Petheric Press, 1976. 122p. Soft wraps. A sequel to We Keep a Light presenting a gripping account of wartime life at a Maine lighthouse. True account of the author and her family, who purchased Bon Portage Island , Nova Scotia , are appointed keeper of the lighthouse and build a life at this isolated Light-station. True accounts of storms, the sea and the light itself, and of working together far from the conveniences of modern-day living. The author, a well known writer, describes the experiences of a her family on the Nova Scotia coast during the Second World War and relates her part in the war effort. She provides a unique perspective of the home front in this wonderful account.  In Evelyn Richardson's acknowledgement she thanks the many local fishermen who gave her information on the results of enemy action off our coast, both during the war years and later. She also goes on to thank Mr. Benjamin P. Smith, former keeper of Cape Sable light. Very difficult to find. (VG). $32. (photo images not included) 

27254b. (wooden block) Early Large 2-shiev U. S. Lighthouse Service wood block (from block & tackle) is complete with hook and is nicely branded “USLHS” on the wood cheek. Block is used but is beautifully intact, clean and in wonderful condition. Such blocks were used for hoisting in lighthouse construction, and in rigging on lightships and tenders. In excellent condition, it is very rare to find these. Measures 23” overall length including large swivel hook. (rope not included) (VG+). $685. Reduced $485.

U. S. Lighthouse Service b/w presentation slides c.1920-30

28450. (Lot over 117 glass projection slides) U. S. Lighthouse Service b/w presentation slides c.1920-30. This lot was found in the Ludington Coast Guard station in the 1970’s-80’s. The lot was produced by the Lighthouse Service and was likely used in various presentations put on by the U.S. Lighthouse Service and Coast Survey in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Slides measure 3 ¼” x 4” and contain fine, clear b/w photographic images of all aspects of the operation of the U.S. Lighthouse Service including light vessels, tenders, construction of lighthouses, lenses, lamps, fog signal equipment, radiobeacons, clock rotation equipment, airways beacons, interior views, flasher and burner mechanisms, lamp changers, models, buoys, historical letters, submarine signals and much more. Glass slides are all in very good condition, most excellent. There are only three or four that have an cracks or damage at all, and these are minor cracks in the corner of the glass. Each is nicely labeled as to subject and/or location, sometimes with date of image. (VG+). $1,995. Reduced $1485.

11353. (architectural drawing) U.S. Light House Establishment. Light House Dames Point, St. John’s River, Florida. 6th District. 1872. 25” x 33”. This is an original hand drawn architectural drawing on linen for a Screw Pile Light House, octagonal style, to b erected on Dames Point to mark an 8-foot-deep shoal a sharp bend in the St. Johns River in Florida that was a danger to ships heading to or from Jacksonville. On 3 March 1871 Congress appropriated $20,000 for erecting an iron screw-p;ile lighthouse on the shoals off Dames Point, and during the winter of 1871-1872 the structure was framed at the workshop at Lazaretto Point, Maryland. The fixed white light was first exhibited on 15 July 1872. In 1893 the establishment of numerous post lights in the St. Johns River above and below the Dames Point Lighthouse made the continuance of the light unnecessary and it was discontinued 28 February 1893. The lantern and lens were taken down and transferred to Charleston, South Carolina and the lantern parapet was roofed in with shingles. The remaining lighthouse structure was destroyed by fire on 25 December 1913. This architectural drawing represents an unprecedented view into the design and construction of this style of lighthouse. The drawing is quite beautiful and would be wonderful for research or to frame for display. This is Sheet No. 1 which includes large half elevation view and half sectional elevation view of the entire light house, lantern and support structure, as well as a second large detail view of the iron support structure. This is an original four color hand drawn in ink on linen architectural drawing. Light edge wear, small tape remains on corners. (VG+). $1,195. Reduced $895.

21523a,b. Harbour Lights. FORT WASHINGTON BELL TOWER , MD. HB901. Special limited edition, only 1200 made exclusively for one dealer and the first fog bell tower ever to be released. This is the first of a series of historic buildings by Harbour Lights made exclusively for the Lighthouse Depot  in Wells Maine ( only 1200 were made ). As new with original paperwork, sure to become a collector’s item. 4”L x 3 ¼”D x 3 ½”H. (M). $59.95. Reduced $46.

12112. Dresser, Thomas. The Wampanoag Tribe of Martha’s Vineyard - COLONIZATION TO RECOGNITION. History Press. 2011. 192p. Soft wraps. The Wampanoag tribe of Gay Head/Aquinnah is a group of indigenous people on Martha’s Vineyard. From their legendary giant leader Moshup, Wampanoags can trace their ancestry back more than 10,000 years. The tribe weathered colonization by missionaries in the 1600s and then endured two centuries of domination, only to have its land taken in 1870. However, over the past 140 years, the Wampanoag tribe, which still lives in its ancestral home of Aquinnah, has shown endurance and fortitude as it continues to practice traditional crafts and its tribal heritage. In this book, Thomas Dresser captures the spirit of the tribe, tracing its survival through to recognition by the federal government in 1987, nearly 25 years ago. Brief interviews with elders and current tribal members offer insight into the tribe’s remarkable history. (M). $19.99. 

Just Arrived !

12113. The Fyddeye Guide to America's Lighthouses: 750+ Lighthouses, Lightships, and Life-Saving Stations You Can Visit Today! Seattle. 2012. 242p. Soft wraps. Well illustrated. The most comprehensive travel guide to hundreds of lighthouses, lightships, and life-saving stations in the United States - the Fyddeye Guide to America’s Lighthouses helps families, retirees, veterans, and visitors find the most interesting maritime heritage attractions for the summer travel season. From islands in Maine to the metropolises of southern California, you’ll discover the towering historic structures that have inspired travelers for millennia. You can get close to virtually all America’s lighthouses, and many allow you to climb to the top and stay as long as a month in historic buildings. Includes more than 750 lighthouses, conveniently organized by coastal region and state; brief histories and complete contact information, including website, email address, and phone; three maps with suggested itineraries for discovering lighthouses in New England, Michigan, and California; notes on whether you can stay overnight on the lighthouse grounds, possibly in the keepers’ historic quarters; chapters on lightships and historic life-saving stations, including availability of overnight accommodations; more than 40 images of lighthouses from coast to coast; and more. (M). $17.95. 

24126c. [powder can] United States Life-Saving Service Powder Can for Mortar c.1870's. Extremely scarce, original United States Life-Saving Service powder can was used during the early years to store black powder for use in the mortar apparatus or Lyle gun. This is the only one that I have ever come across and is constructed of brass by the Walton Brothers Company in New York , thus dating it to the 1870’s. The side panel bears the original stamped “U. S. L. S. S. POWDER” in 3/8” lettering and “Walton Bros NY”. This style of can was used only until the late 1870’s, when it was replaced by bagged powder stored in a brass powder box. With no cracks or dents, overall in unusually fine condition and would polish up to a wonderful shine. Approximately 6 1/8” in diameter. Overall height 15” to top of bale handle. Complete with original screw cap. A superb example of  rarely found Life-Saving Service beach apparatus equipment. (VG+). $3,160. Reduced $2,400. (no discounts apply). 

1267. (life-saving medal) Congressional Life-Saving Medal of the Second Class - Silver c.1941 (LS-10). Issued to Eugene J. Johnson For Bravely Rescuing a Shipmate From Drowning July 11, 1940. Issued July 8, 1941. The Congressional Life Saving Medal (in gold and silver) was authorized by an Act of Congress on June 20, 1874 to be bestowed to a U.S Citizen who rescues or attempts the rescue of any person from drowning, shipwreck or other peril of the water, or to the rescuer of a U.S. citizen. The medal may be awarded for a heroic rescue or attempted rescue with the risk of loss of life to the rescuer within the boundaries of the United States or territories. The Department of the Treasury initially gave the award. This medal contains approximately 38 grams of pure silver and measures 44mm. This is the second of three versions, begun use in 1883. (In 1949 the size of this award was again reduced.) Obverse reads: “United States of America” above and “Act of Congress June 20, 1874” below scene of sailor being rescued. . Engraving within wreath reads: “To Eugene J. Johnson For Bravely Rescuing a Shipmate From Drowning July 11, 1940.”  Reverse reads: “In Testimony of Heroic Deeds In Saving Life From The Perils of The Sea.” Medal was suspended from a bar and ribbon, which is missing. Eagle ribbon holder remains attached. This 2nd version medal was worn on a ruby red or light blue ribbon and was issued from 1882-1949. Condition is very good with normal age darkening in spots and some light rub to high spots of design but nice patina. Light wear to rim, one very small nick. (VG). $1,995.

12103. (mounted photo) U.S. Navy, Chief (Warrant) Carpenter c.1900-1915. Large, clear portrait photo shows superb detail of this Navy Chief Warrant Officer. Details include full double-breasted frock coat in blue, cap with two gold crossed fouled anchors. Sword is attached to sword belt with two slings. Officer has carpenter rate (gold carpenter’s square, points down) on both collars. Photo is crystal clear and measures 5” x 7” on 8” x 11” mount. Photo is clean, crisp, mount has some soiling. Photo by (Theodore C. ) Marceau, 160 Tremont Street, Boston. Great image, couldn’t resist it for its clarity even though not CG, etc. (VG). $45.

12101. (photo) Keeper Kirk McLachlan, Pole Pass Light Station, Washington c.1949. Clear, close original 8” x 10” press photo shows good detail of Keeper Kirk McLachlan standing by his boat Eugenie on Orcas Island, Washington. Orcas Island the largest of the San Juan Islands, which are located in the northwestern corner of Washington state. Kirk McLachlan’s grandfather was one of the first settlers on the island in 1878. He started the light at Pole Pass in 1888. When he died three years later, Kirk’s father took over. He kept it up until his death in 1907, when Kirk took over at the age of 20. In 1949 the light was automated by the Coast Guard, ending the family’s 61 year, and Kirk’s 42 year) history of maintaining it. Photo is b/w and includes date and description with newspaper article on back. Dated June 5, 1949. Clear, close view. (VG). $20.

12107. (photo) Cross Rip Lightship No. 96 / WAL-520 c.1938. Clear, close original photo shows good detail of LV No. 96 on station on Cross Rip (Tuckernuck) shoals in Nantucket sound. The vessel was built in 1914 and served on four stations – Buffalo, Poe Reef, Lake Huron and Cross Rip. Clear close image measures 3” x 4”. (VG+). $29.

1297b. [glass projection slide] Plum Island Lighthouse, Newburyport, Mass. c.1900.  Excellent  b/w glass projection slide by Dr. A. H. Gilson, Stereopticons and Supplies, Boston, features a close, clear view of the replacement 1898 Plum Island light tower and surrounding area. Plum Island, a nine-mile long barrier island off the northern coast of Massachusetts. During its nineteenth-century heyday as a resort, steamships and a trolley line serviced Plum Island. The present Plum Island Lighthouse was first lighted on September 20, 1898, probably the third or fourth lighthouse on this site. This image was likely taken shortly after the station was rebuilt, with a new light tower. The glass slide is large 3 ¼” x 4” and would provide a large clear view. Fine, clear image, close, quite detailed, rare. (VG+). $48.

1297a. [glass projection slide] Deer Island Lighthouse, Boston Harbor, Mass. c.1900.  Excellent  b/w glass projection slide by Dr. A. H. Gilson, Stereopticons and Supplies, Boston, features a close, clear view of the recognizable caisson type lighthouse in Boston Harbor. Two-hundred-ten-acre Deer Island in Boston Harbor, south of the town of Winthrop, became the site for a cast-iron superstructure built on top of a 33-foot diameter caisson. The light tower had four levels between the lantern and basement, including living quarters. The lighthouse was painted brown except for the lantern, which was painted black. The new light went into service on January 26, 1890. This image was likely taken shortly after the station was built. The glass slide is large 3 ¼” x 4” and would provide a large clear view. Fine, clear image, close, quite detailed, rare. (VG+). $22.

12110. (photo) Tramway System, Seguin Island Light Station, Maine c1930’s. For more than two centuries, this lighthouse has been an important guide for mariners traveling along the Maine coast as well as those entering the Kennebec River toward Bath and other ports. Small 2 ½” x 4” photo shows the tramway and engine house as visitors enjoy a day of boating. Noted lighthouse author Jeremy D'Entremont notes in his writings that “Because of the steep quarter-mile climb up to the lighthouse, a tramway system was installed in 1895, its tracks leading from the boathouse up to the keepers’ house. Supplies were loaded into a car that was brought up more than 1,000 feet on the tracks by means of a hoisting engine…. The tramway built to help the keepers get supplies up the steep slope to the station was generally a great help, but it proved dangerous on at least one occasion. In 1949, a keeper’s wife, Joyce Irvine, was riding in the car on the tramway with her 18-month-old daughter when the car broke loose and hurtled downhill, out of control. The woman was badly hurt, but she managed to toss the baby safely to the soft grass. From that point, the Coast Guard didn’t allow passengers on the tramway.” Rare perspective, clear view. (VG). $16.

1284. (document) Half Moon Shoal Lighthouse, Galveston, Texas c.1877. Early document details cordwood purchased and delivered to Half Moon Shoal Lighthouse, Galveston, Texas. Item listed is “1 cord oak wood” at a cost of $5.50. Dated May 18, 1877. Document is signed by C.M. Schoonmaker USN Commander, who was inspector of the 8th Lighthouse District. It is signed in receipt by the supplier, Bryant Pennington who could not write his name, so made his mark “X”. The light station was built in 1854 on Half Moon Shoal in Galvaston Bay. The lighthouse was a red and white painted frame structure with galleries surrounding the main portion of the building and a captain's walk around the light. A bell served as a fog warning device. Decommissioned during the Civil War, the lighthouse was returned to service in 1868 and provided hazard warnings until the disastrous 1900 storm, when a steamship broke free from its mooring and drifted into the structure, destroying it and killing keeper Charles K. Bowen. Document is in good condition, some toning, aging. Measures 7 x 8 ¼”. (VG). $48.

1299. (brochure) The Summertime at Boothbay Harbor, Maine. c.1920's. Board of Trade. 16p. 7 ½” x 10”. Early travel brochure highlights the Boothbay Harbor region with photos and descriptive text. Included is a nice full-page composite view of three Maine light stations, and the Damariscove Life Saving station and crew. Brochure also details sailing in the region, summer homes, golfing, trails and more. Rare item, attractive, moderate soiling, a few stains, edge wear. (G+). $24.

12100. (chart) General Chart of the Northern and Northwestern Lakes Including New York State Canals and Lake Champlain. War Department. Corps. Of Engineers. 1915-1916. Scale 1: 1,200,000. 15 ½” x 24”. Original printed paper, with original folds. Includes cities and towns, most lighthouses and other important locations. Clean, crisp, no tears. Although a lot of information, very small print, still would be a striking Great Lakes piece framed. (VG+). $114.

542b. var. Cape Cod Shipwrecks, Life Saving Service, Lighthouses. Pictorial Tales of Cape Cod. Hyannis. 2nd. 1957. 52p. Soft wraps. Filled with well reproduced, large vintage photos of Cape Cod shipwrecks, Life Saving Service, lighthouses, and more. Includes early views of the wreck of the Alice May Davenport, Kate Harding, Messenger, Charles A. Campbell, Katie J. Barrett, SS Onondaga, Jason, and more. Includes as well Nauset Three Lights, Cross Rip Lightship, Billingsgate Lighthouse, life-savers, and more. Also includes salt works on the Cape, town scenes, mills, Boston-Sandwich Glass Works, parades, Truro cliffs, and more. Clean, nice copy. Worthwhile. (VG+). $18.

11366i. Cape Cod Magazine 1915 – 1916. Vol. I, Nos. 1-12. Twelve issues as originally bound by publisher. Published by The Cape Cod Publishing Co. Inc., Hyannis Mass. Soft covers. 12 ½” x 9”. 18-24 pages each. Wonderful articles describe the Cape Cod of the early Twentieth Century – the homes and businesses, old families, occupations and more. Articles by well known Cape writers including Joseph Lincoln, L.C. Hall, Henry Crocker etc. plus poems by Harold Doane, Phebe Chamberlain, Lilybell Bates etc. There are also many interesting black and white photos and local ads as well as a large, fold-out map of the Cape highways and landmarks. Some magazines were bound without covers, otherwise complete issues with many other wonderful Cape related articles of the day – most interesting reading. (VG). $88. 

28413i. (wooden block) United States Life Saving Service / Coast Guard Breeches Buoy Block. c.1880. Early U. S. Life Saving Service / Coast Guard wood block (from breeches buoy block & tackle) is complete with hook and is nicely branded “U.S.L.S.S.”(in two places)  and “U.S.C.G.” on the wood cheeks. Block is, of course, used but is nicely intact, and in wonderful condition. When a rescue was to be performed using breeches buoy or life car, it was necessary to get a hawser aboard the vessel using the Lyle gun and a shot with small line attached. The small line was pulled aboard the stricken vessel until the seamen pulled aboard the tail block with the whip or endless line rove through it. On the beach end, the hawser was placed over the crotch and tightened using a set of blocks and tackle. This attached the hawser to the sand anchor and allowed the crew to pull the hawser taut. This double-shiev block was part of this block-tackle arrangement. This is an extremely difficult to find pieces from the beach apparatus equipment. Condition is excellent and this will make an important addition to your collection. Exceptionally scarce, and simply a must if you have a Lyle gun or beach apparatus,  or to complete your collection or exhibit. Measures 19” overall length including hook. Shieves 5” diameter. (VG+). $685. Reduced $565.

CT-02. Coston Company Line Gun c.1900. SN#2576. Completely original. $2,690. Please inquire for more information. 

1294. (photo) Moving 1898 Old Harbor Life Saving Station by Barge c.1977. In 1977-1978 the National Park Service rescued the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station from the encroaching ocean on Chatham’s outer beach. The station was built in 1898 and was one of thirteen life-saving stations on outer Cape Cod. The building was lifted by crane, in two sections, onto a barge and moved to Provincetown Harbor for the winter, 36 miles away. The following year the station was placed on a new foundation at Race Point Beach on the Cape Cod National Seashore and restored. Today the station serves as a museum on the U.S. Life Saving Service. Photo was taken on November 30, 1977 by M. Leo Tierney of the Boston Herald American. Measures 8 ½” x 11”. (VG). $48.

12102. (oil painting) Gay Head Life Saving Station, Martha’s Vineyard c.1920 - 1930’s. 8” x 10”. Oil on board. Original walnut frame. This is a vintage oil painting of the United States Life Saving Station located at one time on Martha's Vineyard. The Gay Head Life-Saving station on Martha’s Vineyard was located just east of the lighthouse there. The station had a rich heritage dating from the days of the Wampanoag Indian surfmen and the Massachusetts Humane Society. The station was built in 1895 and was the only station in the country of that (“Gay Head”) design by George R. Tolman. Perched high above the ocean on a cliff, the structure appeared as one of the most striking Shingle Style stations built by the Life-Saving Service. The painting is oil on board and measures 8x10 inches. The frame is walnut and measures 11 ½” x 13 ½” inches. The painting is unsigned but is well done with great use of color and detail. It is in very good condition, two slight indentations to board, no repairs. (VG). $148. 

1296. (photo) Coast Guard 36-Foot T-series MLB Relieving Keepers at Chicago Harbor Lighthouse c.1949. 11” x 14”. Large b/w photo shows good detail looking down from the light tower as Coast Guardsman BM Glen Mc George breaks ice and maneuvers Type TRS Motor Lifeboat CG-36457 out of station Old Chicago to the tower to relieve the keepers on duty. Note the boat’s radio call sign “NSEO” on the deck. The existing light was built at the mouth of the Chicago River in 1893, which was the site of the previous lights. It was moved to its present location on the north breakwater in 1919. The station consists of a 48-foot high, brick-lined round steel tower that is 18-feet in diameter. The lantern is 10-sided built of cast iron, and houses a Third Order Fresnel Lens. Keepers were relieved every three days during this period. Keepers manned the station until 1979 when the light was automated. Great view of this sturdy MLB. Photo is b/w and includes date of February 1, 1939 and credit line or description on back. (VG). $48.

12106. (photo) Nantucket Harbor from the Unitarian Church c.1910. Original early 20th C. photograph of Nantucket Harbor. Taken from the Unitarian Church you can see the Islander Steamer, Skipper Schooner (later turned into a restaurant), Brant Point, and Coatue in the distance. Great detail, clear and crisp. 5” x 7”. b/w. (VG). $88.

2726-39.  (stereoview) Steamer Landing, Nantucket by J. Freeman c.1879. Rare 19th C. stereoview looking into the harbor shows the paddle steamers Island Home and River Queen and assorted Catboat sailboats resting at their moorings. Image is taken from Old North Wharf looking across to Steamboat Wharf. Handwriting on the back indicates a date of 1879. A greatly detailed view, good condition, clean, light edge wear to mount. (VG+). $98.

2726-40. (stereoview) 2nd Floor of the Atheneum Museum, Nantucket by J. Freeman c.1870’s. Rare 19th C. stereoview showing the the early Atheneum Collection which would later be the basis for the Nantucket Historical Association collection. In the foreground is a massive 18-foot Sperm Whale jawbone (looks great in a stereoviewer). A greatly detailed view, good condition, clean, light toning, light edge wear to mount. (VG). $78.

Captain Randolph Ridgely III, U.S. Coast Guard 1928-1961. 

1265. (collection) Captain Randolph Ridgely III, U.S. Coast Guard 1928-1961. This is a significant estate collection from the  career of U.S. Coast Guard Captain Randolph Ridgely III. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard, retiring in 1961 after serving for 33 years. Captain Ridgely was born to Rear Admiral Randolph Ridgely Jr. in Newton, Massachusetts on May 22, 1910. He graduated from the Severna Preparatory School in Maryland in 1928. He received an appointment to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and graduated in 1931. He spent 17 years at sea, stationed up and down the east coast, Florida, and Gulf of Mexico, including service throughout World War II. His service included duty on the CGC Savage and CGC Modoc. He retired as Captain of the Port of San Francisco in 1961. His work after retirement continued as a subcontractor for the Coast Guard at various Coast Guard stations.

Included in this rare lot are the following items from his estate, in ‘as found’ condition: (1) Two copies of “Tide Rips”, US Coast Guard yearbooks: one of the year 1929 when Ridgely served as President of his Class and one of the year 1931, his graduation year. (2) Book, “U.S. Coast Guard Cutters and Craft of WWII”, by Robert L. Scheina, Naval Institute Press, 1982, with his Naval Institute bookplate. (3) Accumulation of photos and ephemera, including a personal scrapbook filled with 72 photos of USCG events and celebrations, Class of 1931 reunion, launching of 84-footers, off-duty and duty at Curtis Bay, World War II photos, certificate of retirement signed by Admiral E.J. Roland, Commandant, USCG., and more. (4) “Modoc” Cutter Reunion memorabilia, including video tape of reunion in Ohio, 1990; two back issues of Alumni publication, “The Bulletin”. (5) Ship’s night order book covering dates of July 15, 1943 through April 3, 1944. We believe this is from the CGC Modoc. (6) U.S. Coast Guard wood plaque/wall hanging. (7) From the chest of Ridgely III, ribbons and uniform decorations WWII era and later (frame shown not included). Includes: American Campaign Medal Ribbon, American Defense Medal Ribbon with star, CG Expert Rifle Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal Ribbon, European - African - Middle Eastern Campaign Medal Ribbon with star, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal - WWII Ribbon with star, World War II (WWII) Victory Medal Ribbon,  Kawait Ein M.I., and others. Also Commodore star, Commander oak leaf, Shield for sleeve on navy blue, Confederate Cross of Honor, presented to a soldier who served overseas during Worls War II. (8) Roll of paper currencies, including some “short snorters”. Includes a total of eleven notes: small 5 Asian bill, 1 Asian bill, Philippines one peso Victory Series, 10 Yen Asian bill (one signature with address), Japanese Government / Philippines 10 peso, 5 Yen military currency, 50 bill probably Japanese, 2 Francs treasury note, 5 Lire Italian Allied Military Currency 1943A Series, 5 Kroner “snorter” with many signatures, $1 dollar U.S. Silver Certificate “snorter” with many signatures. The bills have been scotch taped into a ribbon of bills. (9) Uniform items : Captain’s dress hat, and three cap covers, two white and one wool blue.

Lot of over 115 items $245. 

Bishop and Clerks Lighthouse, Hyannis, Mass. Coast Guard photo. 

5266n. Cusack, Zugbee. COLLECTOR'S LUCK - A THOUSAND YEARS AT LEWIS BAY , CAPE COD . Stoneham , MA . May 1967. Second Printing. 235pp. Illustrated with photos. An unusually nice compilation of information on the area. Contains within a great deal of history of the lights and lifesaving of New England, with photos, including some more obscure lights such as Bishop and Clerks (photo shows the Lighthouse Service blowing up the abandoned light), South Hyannis Light, Point Gammon Light and many others. Excellent reading, some obscure information. Clean, tight copy. (VG+).  $28.

   Print available also. 

1293. (photo) Second-Order Fresnel Lens Section from Minot’s Ledge Lighthouse c.1950. Minot’s Ledge—about a mile offshore, near the South Shore towns of Cohasset and Scituate—is part of the dangerous Cohasset Rocks. The roll call of shipwrecks through the years near the Cohasset Rocks—especially Minot’s Ledge—was lengthy, with and many lives were lost. The lighthouse was automated and the keepers removed in 1947. The second-order Fresnel lens was replaced by a third-order lens. When the old lens was removed, it was put in one of the rooms below for temporary storage. Vandals broke into the lighthouse and smashed sections of the lens, which had been due to go to the Boston Museum of Science. Photo shows one section finally delivered to the museum by the Coast Guard as two Coast Guardsmen and a museum representative pose for the camera. Dated October 5, 1950. 8” x 10”. (VG+).  $44.

KR-01. (original painting) "Madeleine: Defender of the America's Cup, 1876" by Russ Kramer. Oil on Linen, 26" x 40" 2011. The schooner MADELEINE approaches the SANDY HOOK LIGHTSHIP, outer mark of the second race of the 1876 defense of the America's Cup. Not far behind, and well ahead of the Canadian challenger COUNTESS OF DUFFERIN. is the 25-year-old AMERICA, winner of the original 1851 contest. Crew were stationed aboard the lightship for months on end; surely this day would have been a welcome break from the routine. Today, Russ Kramer is widely regarded to be among the country's leading marine artists. His large-scale studio paintings create 'first-hand' experiences for the viewer, putting you right on board during some of history's greatest yacht races or turn-of-the-century luxury vessels. His works are unique and immediately recognizable, combining narrative, historical, figurative and maritime disciplines. Russ has been the subject of a one-man show at the Museum of Yachting in Newport, Rhode Island, appeared in Wooden Boat, Yachting, and Sail magazines, and will be prominently represented in William Koch's forthcoming book, Art and Artifacts of The America's Cup. He is a Fellow and serves as the current President of the American Society of Marine Artists. This original painting is available, as are limited edition prints. Please inquire.

RS-01. (collection) Badges, American Life Saving Society /U.S. Volunteer Life Saving Corps. c.1900 - 1940's. Some with Dieges & Klust hallmarks. Pressed except gilded badge cast.  $240 each. Lot 5 badges $1,020. 

The American Life Saving Society was organized in 1907. In March of that year, Philadelphia newspapers reported  that the society began in a small room in the Tribune building in that city. The society was the idea of Edward C. Brennan, a former Brooklyn Assemblyman and formerly General Superintendent of the U.S. Volunteer Life Saving Corps. 

The society was incorporated to save life wherever possible on land and on water, and to prolong life by preventing disease and accident. The aims of the society were to not only save persons from drowning, but more. Also to save persons from fires, leaky steamboats, runaway horses, unsanitary conditions, factory machinery, etc. Citizens were to be taught by special  squads of volunteers how to swim, how to pasteurize milk, stop runaway horses, detect bad smells, etc. Factories were to be inspected to see if machinery is a menace to humane life, steamboats inspected, etc. Medical Bureaus were to be organized with corps of physicians to teach first aid, hygiene, sanitation and resuscitation from drowning. They were to teach local firemen, police, teachers in schools, the National Guard and more. Some paid inspectors were to visit factories and steamboats, and organized life-saving crews were set up along the shorelines. Instructors were to teach swimming and how to manage boats. These efforts were to hopefully extend to other states and across the country. The organization was set up to include officers (Colonel, Captain, Commodore, State Superintendents, Quartermaster, etc.) 

However, the U.S.V.L.S.C. questioned this organization. It turns out that organizer Edward C. Brennan, once General Superintendent of the U.S.V.L.S.C., resigned from that post when it was revealed that he was using his office there to sell mining stock and other securities. When a meeting of the Board of Directors was called and Brennan heard of it, he resigned, as did some of his people who were canvassing for funds for the organization. 

Although I do not know how long this organization lasted, it may well be that it was short lived and that few such badges were ever issued. 

We do know that the U. S. Volunteer Life-Saving Corps. did enjoy a fine reputation for over 50 years and extended into over 15 states. They were an early supplement to the U. S. Life-Saving Service in some areas, manning lifeboats and providing life-saving services on the coast and on inland waters. The Service maintained branches in 15 states where there were no stations of the Government Life-Saving Service or the Massachusetts Humane Society existed States where U.S.V.L.S.C. stations existed included New York , Massachusetts , Rhode Island , Connecticut , New Jersey , Pennsylvania , Ohio , Michigan , Illinois , Missouri , Wisconsin , Indiana , Delaware , Maryland , and California .

20520f. United States Coast Guard Brass Wall Clock. Original 8-day wall clock manufactured by the Seth Thomas Clock Company for the United States Coast Guard. Black on brass face marked: “ U. S. COAST GUARD No. 1183”. “Made by Seth Thomas in USA ”. Clock case is of solid brass, will polish nicely, with removable brass bezel. Face has not been touched up, hands painted white, otherwise unusually clean and bright, a beautiful piece in excellent condition. Overall diameter 7 ¼” Overall height 2 5/8”. Clock with 8-day movement, running, keeps good time, with winding key. A wonderful example of an early Coast Guard Timepiece. (VG+). $1095. Reduced $895. 

1273. (lot) U.S. Navy Coffee Pot and Pitcher. c.1940’s. World War II vintage. Reed & Barton. This beautiful United States Navy silver plate set was for use in the Officer’s Mess and is of expected high quality construction and added to a most elegant table. Pieces are of heavy weight silver plate and show a high degree of quality workmanship. They are of World War II vintage. Both are by Reed & Barton Company. Pitcher is 9 ½” tall, marked “Reed & Barton Silver soldered 3610 USN”. Coffee pot has ebony wood handle and is 10" tall, marked “Reed & Barton Silver Soldered 3600 668C USN”.  A few light dents and scratches to the pitcher and coffee pot, otherwise in excellent condition. A beautiful, rare wardroom set. (VG+) $148. 

Spoons "USN" $10 each. 

29386b. (cork life vest) Early canvas & cork life jacket c.1933. Early cork jacket was commonly in use from the 1880 era into the 1930’s. Jacket is in very good condition for its age, fairly clean, two tears to shoulders. Jacket is stamped "" Passed " for the years : 1933 at Boston, Mass.,1934 at Boston, Mass, and 1934 at New York. Also stamped " Atlantic-Pacific Mfg. Corp., 124-128 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn, New York. " Size is “Adult”. White canvas life vest includes 8 cork sections. No holes, two tears, all straps remain, material is strong but somewhat darkened overall from soiling and water stained. Cork is solid. Measures 50" in length and 18 ½” top to bottom. A great piece for life-saving display for your surfboat. (VG). $158.

BR-74. THE PROPOSED NEW DIAMOND SHOAL LIGHTHOUSE OFF CAPE HATTERAS. Scientific American. June 11, 1904. Full front page article with illustration of the  proposed new offshore Diamond Shoal lighthouse off Cape Hatteras. Includes complete descriptive article. Framed to 17 ½”  x 22” , double matted in shades of green and buff. Quite attractive. (F-).     $142. Reduced $88.

 BR-71. SCENES IN THE LIFE OF A WRECKER. Harper’s Weekly. February 21, 1874. Wonderful large 10” x 14” full page illustration depicts the life and work of a wrecker in a large central illustration and 10 vignettes. Includes firing the rocket and mortar to effect a rescue, landing the crew, the underwriters at work, welcoming the crew at the hut, laying in stores, salvaging timber, divers at work, and more. Framed to 16”  x 20” , double matted in shades of green. Superb image. (F-).  $148. Reduced $88.

5456f. A VISIT TO A LIGHT-HOUSE. Harper’s Weekly. January 15, 1876. 2pp. Exquisite hand colored double-page, 14"x21", multiple engravings offering a glimpse of the various duties of a light-keeper and the labor and diligence required to keep the great structure in order, with accompanying descriptive article (centers around an offshore light in Great Britain). This is definitely one for display. Only light wear at fold, only very light overall age toning, excellent for dry-mounting and framing. (VG+) $76. Reduced $56.

6744x,z. [Topographic Plate]. COAST LINES: PART OF NANTUCKET MASS. US Geological Survey. c.1908. Size 10”h x 16”. Double page plate from early report. Beautiful, early, three color topographic map shows the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, as well as roads, harbor and important features. This map includes most of the island, from Miacomet Pond and Reed Pond east and north and south to the extremity. U. S. Life-Saving Stations include Surfside, Muskeget, Coskata and Madaket. Lighthouses include Bug Lights, Brant Point Light, Great Point Light and Sankaty Head Light. Also includes harbor, shoals and bars, and much more. Plate is quite desirable for framing. Unusually clean and crisp, a beautiful piece. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (F).  $118. Reduced $76.

1264. (collection) Rear Admiral Randolph Ridgely Jr., U.S. Revenue Cutter Service - Coast Guard c.1890-1935. This is a significant estate collection from the  career of U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Randolph Ridgely Jr. He served in the U.S. Navy, transferring to the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service  and then U.S. Coast Guard. He retired in 1935 after serving for 47 years. 

Randolph Ridgely was born in 1871. He trained at the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis in the class of 1892 and then class of 1894. He wrote in the Book of Naval Cadets Class of 1892: “After bilging [failing from class of 1892] was reappointed and spent three years with ’94 bilging again at the end of the second class year, owing to the fact that the academic board could not see that I was the stuff a naval officer should be made of….” After finding that the Navy “did not need him”, Ridgely tried his luck with the private sector building sailing ships. At the end of six months, he saw “that the cadets for the Revenue Cutter Service were to be appointed after an examination that fall (1893), so took it and received an appointment….” From 1893 to 1912 Ridgely saw service with the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service from Alaska to the Gulf and the Great Lakes, and saw service on the McCulloch at Manila Bay in the Phillipines with Admiral George Dewey, as a Third Lieutenant. 

During World War I Ridgely served as a Captain, U.S. Coast Guard and was Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Yamacraw & USS Castine. For action during this period in 1918 he was awarded the Navy Cross. The citation read: “The Navy Cross is presented to Randolph Ridgeley, Jr., Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as commanding officer of the U.S.S. Yamacraw and the U.S.S. Castine, engaged in the important, exacting and hazardous duty of transporting and escorting troops and supplies through waters infested with enemy submarines and mines.” 

Ridgely retired as Superintendent of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, New London, Connecticut, in 1935, at the rank of Rear Admiral. He passed away in 1951 at the age of 80 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. 

Included in this rare lot are the following items from his estate, in ‘as found’ condition: (1) The Book of Naval Cadets of the Class of 1892, Annapolis, Maryland, in which Ridgely writes of his early career. (2) Grouping of photos and ephemera totaling eight pieces, including two attributable to the Rear Admiral Ridgely’s father, (Ridgely I). Includes US Naval Academy invitation 1894-1895, two early photos of wife Elizabeth Rhind Ridgely (from Georgia),  three official U.S.C.G. photos of Ridgely’s funeral services with full military honors and interment at Arlington National Cemetery, portrait photograph of Admiral Ridgely, and photocopy of orders detaching him from the USS Yamacraw and assigning him to the USS Castine dated 7 August, 1918. (3) Brass U.S.C.G. Academy tag, and personal pocket watch chain initialed “RR”. (4) Wood box with US Naval Academy Annapolis emblem. (5) Uniform: U.S.C.G. “scrambled eggs” dress hat, two pair early blue wool dress pants, one early pair with with gilded side braid, and white cloth belt with brass U.S.C.G. slide buckle, second buckle with “R”.  (6) Tide Rips. U.S. Coast Guard Academy. 1929. Includes Ridgely’s son Randolph Ridgely III, class president. (7) Commodore star, Commander oak leaf,  shield for sleeve on navy blue. 

Lot of 21 items $295. 

1291. Stonehouse, Frederick. Steel On The Bottom - Great Lakes Shipwrecks. Avery. 2012. 224p. Soft wraps. Historical photos, maps, illustrations and underwater photos. Noted maritime historian Frederick Stonehouse recounts the final voyages of eight Great Lakes ships in this volume from Avery Color Studios, a firm specializing in Great Lakes-related books, posters, maps, etc. The ill-fated vessels chosen for inclusion share only the common trait of being steel-hulled ships whose loss tickled the author's fancy. They include a car ferry lost in 1910, a Netherlands freighter lost in 1953, a sand dredger lost in 1950 and so on. In most cases the ships succumbed to the terrifying storms that all too often sweep across the Great Lakes; the others collided in poor visibility. Yet in reading through these accounts, time and again human stupidity, incompetence, inadequate crew training, poorly done ship inspections and related factors played roles in the sinkings and/or excessive loss of life. Stonehouse does a good job of evoking the tedium, tension and sometimes stark terror of sailing the Great Lakes and enduring its vicious storms. Though none of these vessels will ever enjoy the notoriety of the Edmund Fitzgerald, their voyages and endings are well told in this book, which includes over 80 black & white photographs and maps. This book is sure to please both the Great lakes history and shipwreck buff. (M). $16.95.

1292. Stonehouse, Frederick. Wood On The Bottom- Great Lakes Shipwrecks. Avery. 2012. 208p. Soft wraps. Historical photos. A follow up to his very popular Steel On The Bottom, this well researched and well written shipwreck book focuses on wood ships that have met their demise on the Great Lakes. For many centuries wood was the preferred material for ships, both salt and freshwater. Masts, cabins, decks and hulls were all made from it. It was strong, resilient, easy to work with and inexpensive. Properly used and maintained, a wooden ship could last for many years. But it was no guarantee of safety as Wood On The Bottom proves beyond a doubt. Stress of storm, collision, poor navigation, bad luck and human folly all played a part in sending thousands of wooden ships to the bottom of the Great Lakes, where they are quietly rotting away into the ages. Wood On The Bottom tells the dramatic tales of a dozen wooden shipwrecks. Some like the Alvin Clark, Lady Elgin and Rouse Simmons (the infamous Christmas Tree Ship) are well known, but others, including the Persian, Oriole and Bon Voyage are cloaked by history. Another outstanding Stonehouse book. (M). $16.95.

2726-38. (stereoview) Winter Scene Main Street, Nantucket by J. Freeman c.1870’s. Rare 19th C. stereoview of image is looking up Main Street towards the Pacific National Bank. Snow is piled to the side and two men are no doubt discussing the rare amount of snow. The letters "NFS" are written on the back in pencil. A greatly detailed view, good condition, clean, toning and edge wear to mount. (VG). $78.

2726-37. (stereoview) Shady Street View, Broad Street, Nantucket by J. Freeman c.1870’s. Rare 19th C. stereoview looking down Broad Street towards Steamboat Wharf Nantucket. Five men, a boy, and two women can be seen pausing in the street. Cobblestones are seen as well as many trees along Broad Street. Handwriting on the back says "Broad St, looking towards the wharf". A greatly detailed view, good condition, clean, edge wear to mount. (VG+). $88.

   (Ambrose image not included)

1281. Young, James C. A Ship That Never Sails – Thousands of Incoming Vessels Depend upon the Ambrose Light to Guide Them Home. Personality Magazine. 1928. Disbound. 5p. Four page article discusses the value of the Ambrose lightship in guiding vessels into New York. Also looks at life on the vessel, and a great deal on its Captain - Gustav A. Lange. Includes full-page image of Captain Lange. $20.

1278. Cheek, Richard, John Updike and Robert E Cook. Land of the Commonwealth: A Portrait of the Conserved Landscapes of Massachusetts. Trustees of Reservations. Oct 2000. 160p. Soft wraps. 190 color illus. Forward by John Updike. When The Trustees of Reservations was founded in 1891 as America's first private, statewide conservancy, belief in the restorative powers of nature was a relatively new idea in America. Gradually, the colonial impulse to subjugate the wild was transformed into a humanistic reverence for the spiritual power of nature, and land was set aside for preservation. Thanks to the efforts of The Trustees of Reservations and many others, Massachusetts now has 1.1 million acres of land permanently protected from development-more than one-fifth of the state. Land of the Commonwealth is the first photographic book devoted exclusively to the conserved landscapes of a single state. It is both a visual introduction to the diverse natural and cultural sites that have been protected and a tribute to the accomplishments of all those who have worked to safeguard Massachusetts's rich landscape heritage. Organized geographically into five regional sections, the book uses spectacular color photographs by Richard Cheek to capture the scenic, historic, and ecological dimensions of the conserved landscapes of Massachusetts. Each chapter begins with a description of the region's defining characteristics, followed by images of exemplary natural, designed, working, historical, and literary landscapes. Some are popular and beloved, others little-known and waiting to be discovered. Superb work by this nationally recognized photographer. (VG+). $38.

29222b. [full page plate] United States Life-Saving Service, 1899-1915. The Company of Military Historians. Winter 1976. Full color, full page plate details the various uniforms used by the United States Life-Saving Service including Keeper’s uniform, cook, surfman winter and other dress, storm suit, summer uniform and more. Also includes numerous pieces of equipment including Lyle gun, powder box, beach lantern, early station and more. The Company of Military Historians has published a continuing series of articles and military prints, Military Uniforms in America , for many years. These full color prints are executed by different member artists to illustrate military dress relating to the American scene. As far as possible, the plates show items of material culture never illustrated before or not accurately depicted in the past. They are a unique form of reference. With over 800 plates completed to date, this continuing series represents the single most comprehensive documentation available on the subject. Excellent color plate of Life-Saving Service uniforms and equipment for framing. Extremely difficult to find. (F-). $54.

SR-464. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Dish c.1900. Original “U.S.L.H.S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 a third pattern was instituted which included a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. Both patterns were then used up until 1938. Bottom is marked “Jackson China 1936”.  Measurements 5 ½” in diameter. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces, particularly in this pattern. Without any chips, overall clean, some rust staining on bottom. Good condition. (VG). $395.

1289a-J. [full page plate] Military Uniforms in America. The Company of Military Historians. 1976.  Full color, full page plate details the various uniforms and equipment used by various military organizations. The Company of Military Historians has published a continuing series of articles and military prints, Military Uniforms in America , for many years. These full color prints are executed by different member artists to illustrate military dress relating to the American scene. As far as possible, the plates show items of material culture never illustrated before or not accurately depicted in the past. They are a unique form of reference. With over 800 plates completed to date, this continuing series represents the single most comprehensive documentation available on the subject. Excellent color plates include: 

35th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry Regiment ("Cladak Zouaves"), 1863-1865--Plate No. 434;

The Civil Guard in Cuba 1895-1898 (Governor General's Bodyguard)--Plate No. 435;

R.O.T.C. Unit, Oregon State College, 1941--Plate No. 436;

71st (Highland) Regiment of Foot, 1776--Plate No. 437;

Dress Uniforms, 4th U.S. Artillery Enlisted Men and Company Grade Officers, Heavy Batteries 1872-1881--Plate No. 438;

Maryland Guard Battalion 53rd regiment Infantry, Maryland Militia 1860-1861--Plate No. 439;

French Corps of Cavalry, Canada, 1759-1760--Plate No. 441;

The Second Rhode Island regiment of the Continental Line, 1775-1777--Plate No. 442;

 Signal Corps, United States Army, Full Dress, 1891-1902--Plate No. 443;

American Expeditionary Forces, North Russia Archangel Contingent, 1918-1919--Plate No. 444;

Excellent for framing, difficult to find. Clean, crisp. (F-). $4.50each.

1271. [mounted photograph & button] U.S. Army Transport Service (ATS) Officer c.1900. This rare posed portrait photograph shows the handsome ATS Officer proudly posing in his single-breasted uniform coat and hat. Clearly visible is his uniform cap with U.S. Army Transport Serviceinsignia, gilded chin strap and button. Clearly visible too are the “U.S.A.T. “ embroidered insignia with fouled anchor on his collar. The Army Transport Service (ATS) was organized in late 1898 as an integral part of the Army Quartermaster Department. The concept for an Army operated fleet had its origins with the experiences of the military sealift during the Spanish-American War when U.S. flag commercial shipping was found in part unresponsive to the Army's needs. During the early twentieth century, the Army operated a large transpacific sealift consisting of its own ships as well as a number of commercial bottoms. Rapidly expanded during World War I, by early 1918 the Army was manning with its own crews in excess of fifty ships in support of the American Expeditionary Force in France. With the beginning of World War II, the fleet was again expanded. In 1942, the Army Transport Service was absorbed into the Army's Transportation Corps, becoming part of the Water Division, its civilian seamen employees being classified as members of the Water Division's "Civilian Branch." At peak force during WWII, the Army's owned and chartered fleet numbered over 1600 vessels. The Army Transportation Corps still operates a substantial fleet of small craft, the crews of which are now all military. The view measures 3 ½” x 5” oval on original 9” x 11” photographer’s  mount. Mount is labeled “Elmer Chickering [photographer] Boston”. Photo is clear, and crisp, one of the better images we have had in some time. Light edge wear to mount only. Also included is one uniform button: U.S. Army Transport Service (Albert’s GO-6) circa 1900-1942. Backmarked "Waterbury Button Co. Conn." 23mm. Design has ship's anchor and "A.T.S." on a lined background with a raised rim. Great lot from this little known service. (VG+). $76.

1282. (stereoview) Light Station at Watch Hill, Rhode Island c.1880’s. Fine early view looks down the peninsula to the light station at the tip. Watch Hill, a village of Westerly, Rhode Island, is a quaint resort area with many shops and stately mansions. Clark Gable, Groucho Marx, Henry Ford, and Douglas Fairbanks were among those who vacationed here. A watchtower and a simple beacon were first established by the Rhode Island colonial government around 1745. The new 45-foot square granite tower shown here and lined with brick, was put into service in 1855. It was fitted with a fourth order Fresnel lens. View shows good detail of the then remote area. Quite clear, only very light soiling. (VG+). $94.

1274. Salter, Ben B. Portsmouth Island - Short Stories and History. 1972. Softcover, 80 pages. Illustrated. Portsmouth Island stands as a reminder that some wild places cannot be tamed. Contained within the sandy borders of Portsmouth Island, North Carolina, lies Portsmouth village, a 250-acre hamlet once known to be a bustling Southern Outer Banks settlement bordered by precious, undisturbed beaches. This an easy read about simple times in this once bustling fishing village. Anyone who has ever visited our nation’s outer beaches can appreciate these tales. The stories recount the history of the island and some of it's inhabitants before the last resident moved off the island and before the National Park Service took it over in the 70's. Includes chapters on the Life-Saving / Coast Guard station, shipwrecks off the island, caught in a storm, life on the island and more. Great accounts for those who long to escape the hustle and bustle of contemporary life. Clean, tight. Difficult to find. (VG+). $26.

1277a. (photo) U. S. Life Saving Crew, Newport, Oregon c.1913. Fine clear image features two members of the Life-Saving Service crew operating the motor lifeboat. The motor lifeboat is Station Yaquina Bay’s 36ft. McLellan Type E motor lifeboat No. 1158, the Undaunted, which was delivered upon its completion (built at the Electric Boat Co., Bayonne, NJ) in 1913. This photo may have been taken specifically to commemorate its delivery. Clear, close b/w photo. Nice view, great early detail including bronze Life-Saving Service insignia on bow. On postcard paper (AZO 1904-1918) (VG+). $54.

1277b. (photo) U. S. Life Saving Crew, Newport, Oregon c.1912. Fine clear image features members of the Life-Saving Service crew drilling with breeches buoy – hauling man ashore. Clear, close b/w photo. Nice view, great early detail including white summer uniforms, crotch pole and equipment. On postcard paper (AZO 1904-1918) (VG+). $48.

29347c. Perrenot, Preston B. United States Coast Guard Grade Insignia Since 1834. 152p. 2011. Completely revised in 2011. A detailed examination, in color plates and textual explanation, of the grade insignia wornn by line officers, engineering officers, warrant officers, enlisted personnel, and cadets of the United States Coast Guard and Revenue Cutter Service since 1834. Also included are the Coast Guard warrant officer specialty marks, enlisted rating insignia, as well as grade insignia of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. In this edition has been added the grade insignia of the USCG staff officers, the SPARS, the U.S. Lighthouse Service and information on the U.S. Life-Saving Service. Available in printed soft cover ($46) or in PDF format on CD ($16). 

1283. (hat pin) U. S. Life Saving Service c.1880-1910. Period Victorian lady's hat pin is only the second that I have found. This pin was probably owned by the wife of a Life-Saving Service keeper or surfman and bears an original top from a  “U.S. Life Saving Service” button. Button measures 5/8” in diameter and is mounted in a decorative mount. Hat pin appears professionally made and dates to the period 1880-1910. Pin measures 7 ¼” long. This is a wonderful artifact of the period and a rarely found wife’s possession. Light wear and soiling, needs a good cleaning. (VG). $184. 

     (postcard view not included)

1258b. U.S. Life-Saving Service. Order Form for Uniform Form No. 1852 c.1899. Great Boars Head Life-Saving Station, Hampton, NH. 4p. 8 ½” x 14”. Four page original form includes all necessary forms for ordering and paying for uniforms. Includes listing of items ordered including Kersey coats, vests and trousers for winter, flannel for summer, caps, overcoats, jumpers, storm suits, cap ornaments, and buttons. Also includes page for measurements with diagrams, invoice page and receipt. Filled out for Surfman Roderick MsDonald at Great Boars Head Life-Saving Station, Hampton, NH. Form is filled out in hand by Surfman McDonald and by Assistant District Inspector Lt. Worth G. Ross. Rare early Life-Saving Service uniform information and form. Expected wear, light soiling, original folds. (VG). $295. 

10110b. (cabinet photo) Pump Square in Siasconset by Henry S. Wyer c.1890's. Extremely rare albumen photo by Henry S Wyer  of Nantucket and Yonkers shows great detail of residents at Pump Square in Siasconset. The Nantucket Historical Association archives notes that “…the home in the background is known as “The Corners”, on center Street. Sitting on the fishing dray is Henry Tucker. The horse and box wagon belong to George C. Gardner and the man in the cart may be Avery Gardner. At the pump handle is little Annie Alden Folger, at the back of the pump is Joe Norcross.” View is unusually clean, clear, on tan mount with Wyer’s backmark. It is extremely difficult to find early views of Nantucket and this view is certainly one of the better and more interesting. View measures 4 ¼” x 6 ½”. About as nice as they come. (VG++). $224.

1288. Roberts, Cheryl Shelton and Bruce Roberts. North Carolina Lighthouses: Stories of History and Hope. Globe Pequot. 2011. 168p. Soft wraps. Signed by the authors. A stunning, full-color celebration of some of the world’s most famous lighthouses, the shoreline they stand on, and the people who have worked to protect them, with the lore and history of North Carolina’s seafaring past coming to life in the text by Cheryl Shelton-Roberts and photographs by noted photographer Bruce Roberts. From Cape Hatteras to Bodie Island Light, North Carolina is home to some of the most famous lighthouses in the world, and with this book, beautiful photography and engaging text come together to bring alive, as never before, the lore and history of North Carolina’s seafaring past. But this is not just a tribute to the sentinels that dot the North Carolina shoreline today, North Carolina Lighthouses also offers a glimpse into the Golden Age of the Lighthouse System and makes a compelling case for preserving these buildings and their stories for posterity. WELL DONE ! Very very interesting, beautiful mix of old and recent photos, great info. Very interesting reading. (M). $19.95.

1285a. na. Lighthouses and Buoys of New York Harbor – Safeguards for the Mariner. Scientific American Supplement. March 1, 1913. This article is 3 pages with 9 illustrations / diagrams. Includes Ambrose Lightship, tenders, buoys and more. With the opening of Ambrose channel, the subject of lighthouse illumination in New York Harbor received more attention. Detailed article describes the numerous aids including lighthouses, lighted buoys, lightships and more in some detail. Nicely done, good reference and reading. Full issue. (VG+). $69.

3/1/12

28348. Wilkinson, William D. and CDR Timothy R. Dring, USNR (Retired). American Coastal Rescue Craft - A Design History Of Coastal Rescue Craft Used By The United States Life-Saving Service And The United States Coast Guard. University Press. 2009. 185p. Unjacketed cloth. With CD-ROM with 323 b/w illustrations. Long awaited, this exhaustive reference work describes detailed history and technical design information on every type of rescue craft ever used by the U.S. Life Saving Service (USLSS) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) from the 1800s to current day. By looking at these vessels, many of which featured innovative designs, the authors shed light on the brave men and women who served in these heroic services. The first of its kind ever to be published in the United States on this topic, the book and accompanying CD provide detailed information, drawings, and photographs (many of which have never before appeared in print) for each type of surfboat, lifeboat, and utility craft, along with a complete list of every boat ever built and assigned coastal rescue station(s). Included are motorized, wind-powered and human-powered vessels. The book is organized into two major sections: 1) a general, historical narrative, and 2) detailed technical appendices. This college text-sized book is 185 pages in length, with about 140 photos and diagrams. In addition, a reference/appendix section on a co-packaged CD will include 323 additional photos and diagrams. The book is co-authored by William D. Wilkinson, Director Emeritus of the Mariners Museum in Newport News , VA , and CDR Timothy R. Dring, USNR (Retired). Mr. Wilkinson has been engaged since the 1950s in the historical research of small craft used for rescue purposes, and is a well-recognized expert in this field. He is currently an official historical consultant to the USCG on this subject. CDR Dring, although not a professional historian, has had previous experience in the Navy working closely with the Coast Guard on harbor and coastal defense, and has a great interest in and respect for the humanitarian rescue operations this Service conducts with specialized small craft. The extensive research that went into this book, including reference to original USLSS and USCG documents held by the National Archives, has had the full support of the USCG’s Historian, Dr. Robert Browning, and his staff. The most comprehensive work on Coastal Rescue Craft used by the United States Life-Saving Service and the United States Coast Guard ever published. (M). $125.  Order now as only a limited number were printed. (Ask about our U.S.L.S.S.H.A. discount.) 

465. H.R. Doc. No. 158. BUILDING LIGHT-HOUSES, LIGHT-BOATS, BEACONS, &c. February 6, 1839 . 19pp. Includes recommendations on Whale’s Back Light, Saddleback Ledge, Plymouth Gurnet Light, Chatham Twin (wooden) Lights, Reedy Island, Louis McClain Light-boat (Michigan - lost in a gale with all hands), Florida lights and others. Rare early information, disbound from Congressional Record. $22.

825. H. R. Doc. No. 27. LIGHT-HOUSES, BUOYS, &c., INFORMATION UPON THE SUBJECT OF EXECUTING THE LAW FOR BUILDING LIGHT-HOUSES, BUOYS, &c. December 14, 1837 . 27p. Contains a complete listing of lighthouses and beacons with the number of lamps lit as of the first day of January, 1833. Also contains an extensive account of approved and rejected light-house construction projects in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Mass., Conn., Rhode Island, New York, Jew Jersey, Penn., Del., Maryland, Virginia, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Great Lakes, etc. Extensive early information, disbound from Congressional Record. $28.

6462. H. R. Ex. Doc. No. 52. A REPORT RESPECTING LIGHT-HOUSES. March 3, 1851 . 5p. Reports on a number of sites proposed for light-houses  including Saddle-back Rock, Maine, Egg Rock, Nahant, Bass River, Sow-and-Pigs Reef, Fire Island inlet, Monaskonk Shoal, Mississippi City, Pascagoula River, and Port Ular. Rare early information, disbound from Congressional Record. $16.

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