Editor’s note: The following communication was submitted by the Lilac Preservation Project.
This is for SIU members who trained at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship between 1972 and 1984.
The ex-Coast Guard Cutter Lilac is celebrating her 90th year in 2023 with an exhibit about the ship’s history. After her decommissioning in 1972, she was donated to the Lundeberg school and used as a dormitory. Little was changed on this steamship during her tenure there since training in her reciprocating steam propulsion system was no longer necessary. She was sold by the school on Oct. 24, 1984 to Atlantic Towing.
We are seeking photos, reminiscences and other memorabilia from SIU members who were familiar with the Lilac during her days at Piney Point. We have very little information about this period in her history and hope that you can help fill the blank. If you have material to share, please contact Museum Director Mary Habstritt at [email protected].
The Lilac is the last surviving steam-powered lighthouse tender in America and the oldest Coast Guard black hull afloat. Her significance has been recognized by her enrollment in the National Register of Historic Places.
The Lilac served as a lighthouse and buoy tender from 1933 to 1972 and is now owned and operated by the non-profit Lilac Preservation Project. The ship is currently being restored for maritime education and community activities and is berthed from May to October at Hudson River Park’s Pier 25 in New York City, where she is open to the public for tours and other events. To learn more and view our schedule of events for 2023, see www.lilacpreservationproject. org
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