In
the Spring of 1879, when Coast Guard Station Manistee, then known as the U.S. Life Saving
Service, first opened its doors, the harbor was rated second only to Calumet Harbor in
Chicago in commercial tonnage traffic on Lake Michigan. As lumber and other industries
developed along Lake Michigan, fatal accidents here and throughout the Great Lakes during
the 1870's resulted in a strong outcry for governmental intervention and prompted the
establishment of life saving stations like the one at Manistee.
The
original life savers brought to the mission a dedication that soon earned them wide
acclaim. News reporters of the period referred to them as "Storm Warriors" and
"Heroes of the Surf".
A
few years ago, when government cost cutting was in full force, the Manistee Station was in
danger of being closed. The community rallied around and formed "Save Our
Station" movement to lobby and promote the need for the presence of the U.S. Coast
Guard in Manistee. The action was successful thanks to the support given by the community
and state officials.
The
community also was successful in saving the Historic Catwalk on the North Pier from
demolition and it was restored with local and state joint funding.
The
original Station building was moved from it's original site and a newer building is now
being used. The original building has been moved twice within the City of Manistee and is
a family home. A new station will be built within the next few years to
house the larger regional station and a boatslip will be added at the channel entering
Harbor Village Marina.
The
presence of the U.S. Coast Guard, Station Manistee is greatly appreciated by all who live
and visit this beautiful Lake Michigan Community.
