Margate Lifeboat Station

Margate Lifeboat Station, nestled in the charming seaside town of Margate in Kent, is a beacon of maritime history and modern-day heroism. With over 160 years of life-saving legacy, this station is not just a crucial facility for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) but also a testament to the bravery and dedication of its crews. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a maritime aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this station promises a deep dive into the past and present of sea rescue operations.

The Early Days

The story of Margate Lifeboat Station began in 1857 with the arrival of its first lifeboat, Angela and Hannah, a generous gift from Baroness Angela Burdett-Coutts. Initially managed by the local community, the station came under the auspices of the RNLI in 1860. This transition marked the beginning of a structured and professional approach to life-saving at sea.

By 1861, the first significant upgrade took place. The existing boathouse on the stone pier was refitted to meet the RNLI's requirements. The new lifeboat, Quiver No.1, was introduced in 1866, a 34-foot self-righter that launched 34 times and saved 70 lives during its service. This lifeboat was the first of two provided by The Quiver magazine, which had raised funds through its subscriptions.

Challenges and Innovations

Despite the advancements, the station faced several challenges. The stone pier location proved problematic, especially during heavy seas when the launch horses struggled against the fierce waves. This issue came to a head in 1898 when a storm threw the launching horses off their feet, leading to the loss of four horses.

In response, the lifeboat station was moved to Margate Jetty in 1898, where two slipways were constructed. However, the relocation was not without its hurdles. A storm during construction revealed design flaws, necessitating revisions. Despite these setbacks, the new slipways were officially opened on 14 May 1898, along with two new lifeboats, Civil Service No.1 and Eliza Harriet.

World War II and Beyond

The Second World War brought new challenges and responsibilities. The station fell under Royal Navy control, but the local RNLI personnel continued their life-saving duties. Coxswain Edward Parker was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his bravery during the Dunkirk evacuation, highlighting the station's critical role during the war.

Post-war, the station continued to evolve. In 1951, the Lord Southborough was retired, and a new all-weather lifeboat, North Foreland (Civil Service No. 11), was introduced. The station celebrated its centenary under RNLI control in 1960, having rescued over 1,800 people by that time.

The Storm of 1978

One of the most dramatic episodes in the station's history occurred on 11 January 1978. A violent storm devastated the North Kent coast, washing away most of the iron jetty and severely damaging the lifeboat house. The crew had to be airlifted by a Royal Air Force helicopter to launch the stranded North Foreland. This event underscored the station's resilience and the crew's unwavering commitment to their mission.

Modern Era and Technological Advancements

In the wake of the 1978 storm, a new shore-based lifeboat station was constructed, completed by August 1978. The Rother-class lifeboat, Silver Jubilee, was introduced in November 1978, named by HRH Princess Margaret in a ceremony the following year.

The 1990s and 2000s saw further upgrades. In 1991, the Mersey-class lifeboat Leonard Kent replaced the Silver Jubilee. The station was enlarged and modernized in 1998, and in 1999, a new D-class lifeboat, Tigger Too, was introduced, later replaced by Tigger Three in 2008.

A Visit to Remember

Today, Margate Lifeboat Station operates with two boats: the fast B-Class inflatable Atlantic 85, named Colonel Stock, and a D-Class inflatable named Alfred Alexander Staden. The station also boasts modern launch and recovery tractors, ensuring rapid response times in emergencies.

Visitors can explore the station’s rich history and witness the state-of-the-art equipment used in modern rescue operations. The station's crew, known for their bravery and dedication, have been awarded numerous honors, including the RNLI Silver and Bronze medals for gallantry.

Margate Lifeboat Station is not just a place of historical significance; it is a living, breathing institution that continues to save lives and serve the community. As you walk through its halls and learn about its storied past, you'll gain a deep appreciation for the courage and commitment of the men and women who have served here. Whether you're drawn by the history, the heroism, or the cutting-edge technology, a visit to Margate Lifeboat Station is a journey through time and a tribute to the enduring spirit of maritime rescue.