Lightship Overfalls maritime scholarship applications due March 15

The Overfalls Foundation is accepting applications for its maritime scholarship. The foundation is currently offering two scholarships of $2,500 each.

The scholarship is presented to Cape Henlopen High School graduating seniors who intend to pursue a college degree in the study of maritime, marine or environmental sciences. Applicants will be judged on academic achievement, leadership, character, service and financial need, with special consideration given to those who have volunteered with the Overfalls Foundation.

The application can be found at the school counselor’s office or on the foundation website at overfalls.org. 

In order to be considered, applications are due in the guidance counselor’s office by Wednesday, March 15.

The Lightship Overfalls was the last lightship constructed for the United States Lighthouse Service before the agency became part of the U.S. Coast Guard. It is currently preserved in Lewes as a museum ship. Unlike most U.S. lightships, this vessel remained on station during World War II. A severe storm in December 1970 damaged the ship, leading to its decommissioning on Nov. 7, 1972.

Upon retirement, the ship was donated to the Lewes Historical Society and placed on display in Lewes, painted for the Overfalls station, though it never served there.

The ship's condition deteriorated, and a failed attempt in 1999 to sell it led to the formation of the Overfalls Maritime Museum Foundation, now the Overfalls Foundation, to maintain and restore the vessel.

The Overfalls remains in Lewes and is available for tours.