Black History Month program at COA will focus on the Pea Island Lifesavers

The Pea Island Preservation Society is excited to announce a special Black History Month program, PIPSI Past, Present and Future to be held at the College of the Albemarle, Dare County Campus, at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

This program is to recognize the inspiring story of Keeper Richard Etheridge and the Pea Island Lifesavers, a story that has become the centerpiece for learning and understanding the Black history of Outer Banks area. It is to also raise awareness of the Pea Island Preservation Society, Inc., otherwise known as PIPSI, and of their continued efforts to make this history known.

Those attending will be the first to preview and provide feedback on the collective viewing of three short videos that highlight PIPSI’s efforts and the creative approaches they use to raise awareness. The three videos total about a half an hour in length with remaining time of the 1-hour program planned devoted to discussion and feedback.

As reflected in the second of the three videos that will be featured, at the end of their last Black History Program held at the COA in 2023, descendants of the Pea Island lifesavers and others with a special connection or interest were afforded the opportunity for short on-camera interviews. This year, PIPSI will do the same. Given the many years the Pea Island station existed, they are particularly interested in hearing stories about those who served there or who interacted with the Pea Island crew in some special way.

On January 24, 1880, when selected as the Keeper of the Pea Island station Etheridge became the first Black person in the nation to command a U.S. Lifesaving Service (USLSS) station. The story of Etheridge’s life, the heroic and daring October 11, 1896, rescue of the shipwrecked schooner E.S. Newman by his all-Black crew and their legacy is a compelling part of the history of the Outer Banks. Yet, it has been overshadowed by the more popular history the area is known for. Simply put, PIPSI’s goal is to change this.

Up until now, the story of Etheridge and the Pea Island Lifesavers has focused primarily on Etheridge’s life: his enslaved upbringing, serving with the US Colored Troops during the Civil War, and the events associated with his commanding the Pea Island station. PIPSI’s goal, however, is to not only to continue making this history known, but also to bring to light new stories. Why? Because there are other stories to be told, particularly for a station that existed for 67 years (1880-1947) that was staffed primarily with Blacks at key periods in the nation’s history.

“We also know a complete understanding this history should include the sharing of information about other happenings, particularly those to enable a better understanding of what life was like during the entire era the Pea Island station existed,” stated a press release from PIPSI.

“Also, as our new checkered life-ring logo is intended to draw attention to, the Pea Island station existed when several racially-mixed stations known as checkerboard stations or crews were on the Outer Banks, and when people were strictly categorized as being either “Black” or “White” to determine their social standing. This is another phenomena which makes the story of the nation’s only “all-Black” USLSS even more compelling to know and understand.

“The COA holds a special place in our hearts especially given the student lounge on the second floor is named to honor Etheridge. Also, given the importance that being taught to read and to write played in Etheridge’s life, it is an ideal location to encourage interest and continued support. However, please know that seating is limited. Therefore, early arrival is encouraged. We are hoping for a full house as PIPSI will also be seeking suggestions and ideas of how to strengthen our outreach in the community and beyond. PIPSI Board members will also be at the program to share information and answer questions.

“As many are aware, PIPSI’s President, Darrell Collins recently passed. While Darrell was most known for his association with the history of the famous Wright Brothers’ first first flight, it is important to also mention his second passion was PIPSI, and that he was the founder of our 501(c) (3)non-profit. He will be surely missed as we strive to do more!

“A special thanks to Dean Sweeny and the COA staff for welcoming our return. Also, our continued thanks and appreciation to all those who have supported us over the years.”