About this Unit
Lightship WAL 536, also known as the "Overfalls," was a United States Coast Guard lightship constructed in 1950 and commissioned to serve as a navigational aid along the U.S. East Coast. Throughout her active service, WAL 536 was stationed at several key locations, most notably the Overfalls station off the coast of Delaware, where she warned mariners of shallow waters and dangerous shoals. The vessel was crewed by Coast Guard personnel and played a critical role in maritime safety during her operational years until being decommissioned in 1972. Today, Lightship WAL 536 is preserved as a museum ship in Lewes, Delaware, honoring her legacy and the vital service of American lightships.
Historical Facts
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Lightship WAL 536, also known as Lightship Chesapeake (LV-116/WAL-536): This vessel served as a floating lighthouse, helping to guide ships safely through the Chesapeake Bay and other treacherous waters along the U.S. East Coast.
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Commissioned in 1930: WAL 536 was built and launched in 1930 by the Pusey & Jones Shipyard in Wilmington, Delaware, for the United States Lighthouse Service.
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Service during World War II: During World War II, Lightship Chesapeake was taken off station and armed for coastal defense duties, reflecting the strategic importance of lightships during wartime.
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Multiple Station Assignments: Throughout her career, WAL 536 served on several lightship stations, including Fenwick Island Shoal, Chesapeake, and Delaware Bay.
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Renowned for Endurance: Lightship crews often served in harsh, isolated conditions, sometimes riding out hurricanes and major storms while anchored in place.
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Longest-serving Lightship on Chesapeake Station: WAL 536 was stationed at the Chesapeake Light Station from 1933 to 1965, making her the longest-serving vessel at this important location.
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Transition to Coast Guard Service: When the Lighthouse Service was merged into the U.S. Coast Guard in 1939, WAL 536 became a Coast Guard vessel, reflecting the changing nature of maritime navigation aids.
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Decommissioned in 1970: After being replaced by a light tower, WAL 536 was decommissioned, marking the end of an era for manned lightships in the Chesapeake region.
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Preservation as a Museum Ship: Today, WAL 536 is preserved and open to the public as a museum ship at the Baltimore Inner Harbor, where visitors can learn about her history and the important role of lightships.
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Designation as a National Historic Landmark: In 1989, Lightship Chesapeake was declared a National Historic Landmark, recognizing her significance in U.S. maritime and military history.
