The Centers for Culture and History in Orleans, MA is home to the CG36500 Gold Medal Boat, a fully restored and operational motor lifeboat that played a crucial role in a daring rescue mission during a snowstorm in 1952. Owned by the Orleans Historical Society, this 36-foot wooden lifeboat is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the only operating survivor of its class on the East Coast. Visitors can view the boat nearly year-round at its berths in Orleans and learn about the incredible night at sea that earned the crew the Gold Life-Saving Medal.
The fate of the CG36500 is a remarkable rescue story in itself, as it sat neglected and nearly forgotten for years after its retirement in 1968. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers and generous support, the boat was carefully rebuilt and restored to its former glory. Today, the CG36500 serves as a floating museum, offering special onboard talks and tours during the summer weekends at Rock Harbor. Visitors can also explore the Orleans Historical Society Museum to view memorabilia and delve into the captivating story of the 1952 rescue off the coast of Chatham.
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