On June 14, 2011, the U.S. Secretary of Interior, Ken Salazar, designated the Lightship Overfalls in Lewes a National Historic Landmark.
With this designation, the Lightship Overfalls joins 12 other places
or structures in Delaware which have been selected as “the most significant
places in American history”. The selection of the Overfalls is unique
as she is the only ship in Delaware so designated and the only National
Historic Landmark in Sussex County.
The importance of a National Historic Landmark in the fabric of American history is defined in the 1999 National Park Service bulletin, How to Prepare National Historic Landmark Nominations, which states:
By definition, the almost 2300 (sic, there are now almost 2500) properties designated as National Historic Landmarks are the most significant places in American history---they illustrate and commemorate our collective past and help us to understand our national identity. National Historic Landmarks outstandingly represent and interpret the best and brightest and the most tragic aspects of our history. Through these Landmarks, all Americans can better understand and appreciate the broad trends and events, important persons, great ideas and ideals, and valuable accomplishments in the arts and sciences, and humanities, that are truly significant in our history.
With this designation, the National Park Service will provide a bronze plaque to identify the ship as a Landmark. The Overfalls Foundation plans a public ceremony on September 28 at 2:00 pm to unveil the plaque which will remain on display near the ship. See the ceremony program.
Lightship LV-118, National Historic Landmark Nomination Form
Prepared September 15, 2009. (7.5 meg pdf file) (click here)
"Ship gains historic status"
Delawareonline Article, June 25, 2011 (click here)
"Carper Lauds Lightship Overfalls Designation"
Sussex Pilot, June 24, 2011 (click here)
"Lightship Overfalls - first National Historic Landmark in Sussex County"
WGMD.COM Radio, June 24, 2011 (click here)
"DELAWARE: Ships gain historic status"
DelmarvaNOW.com, June 25, 2011 (click here)
"Overfalls named a National Historic Landmark"
Cape Gazette, June 29, 2011 (click
here)