The coastline along the Outer Banks of North Carolina has long been a notoriously dangerous region for mariners to navigate. While a number of light stations were being built to help mariners safely navigate the waters, the United States Life-Saving Service was busy establishing Life-Saving Stations as well, to assist mariners in distress.
In 1878, the “Tommy’s Hummock” life-saving station was constructed on what is known today as Bodie Island. The station, located just north of the Bodie Island Lighthouse, later took on the name “Bodie Island.” The 1876-Type station served until 1925 when a new Chatham-Type building was erected just to the south.
Today, the both buildings still remain and are owned by the National Park Service. The 1876-Type station has undergone some modifications. The lookout platform has been removed and windows have replaced the double doors which enabled the surfmen to roll the surfboat inside
the station. The building is being used as a private residence and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Just a few yards away, the Chatham-Type building has been abandoned. The building appears to be structurally sound, although the exterior of the building needs some attention.
