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Step Into the Past and Relive Our Heritage with the Sea…
The Amity. Cries for help in the darkness of icy-cold salt breakwaters. Broken spars. A handful
of brave men. The life car. The Lyle gun. The breeches buoy. A lantern of hope!
All of these come to mind when thoughts turn to the historic significance of the Squan Beach
Life-Saving Station No 9.
Shipping and farming were the backbone of this coastal community. You see it in the sea
captains’ names on the street signs and as you drive past their homes. The Squan Beach LifeSaving Station is not just a building; it is the core representation of our heritage. The Founding Fathers of this borough served as volunteers putting their lives in the balance to
save others at sea long before the government paid anyone to keep watch at sea. Many of the descendants of those keepers, wreck masters, and surfmen still reside in Manasquan.
One such example of this heroism may be summed up with a brief story occurring on June 13, 1903. On that day, four men risked their lives to save five others – one of those lifesavers was the Squan Beach Life Saving Station Keeper Robert Longstreet. For Keeper Longstreet’s
heroism Congress awarded gold lifesaving medals to him, John Andersen, and Charles Bowker, and in addition, a silver medal to Harry Andersen.
It is essential that this landmark property be preserved to remind, to illustrate, and to celebrate the many stories of heroism demonstrated at the Squan Beach Life-Saving Station No 9.
Join Our Station... We Need Your Help
The Squan Beach Life-Saving Station will serve as a unique, historic focal point for the Borough of Manasquan as well as a destination for those who are interested in maritime history. As other stations in the state have succumbed to demolition and new development, or private homes and clubs, Manasquan has taken advantage of this wonderful opportunity to secure ownership and open it to the public honoring its role in this seaside community.
Join us! Whether you are interested in our station, maritime history, or preservation...become a volunteer.
We are always looking for new members and volunteers.
- Member dues are $25 per year per person
- Lifetime dues $250 per person
For additional information please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 732-447-6419
Volunteer Docents are needed. Please call Marilyn Jacobson at 732-986-2125
Click HERE to Download and Print our Membership Form
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