VIA Children’s Fishing Pier honored in Rehoboth
The Delaware Public Archives recognized the Village Improvement Association with a historic marker honoring the building of the Children's Fishing Pier located beside the Lake Gerar Bridge in Rehoboth April 27 at ceremony unveiling the new historic marker to the public.
Current VIA President Rose Marie Patin welcomed dignitaries, including: Rehoboth Mayor Paul Kuhns, Sen. Ernesto Lopez, R-Lewes, and Rep. Peter Schwartzkopf, D-Rehoboth, along with Delaware State Archivist Stephen Marz, fellow state archive employees, VIA members and the public.
"I would like to thank everyone for coming and supporting this moment in Rehoboth's history. The Children's Fishing Pier was first imagined by the VIA in 1962 after the devastating nor'easter that occurred Ash Wednesday, when high winds ripped through our shore town for three days. Despite many homes, businesses, and even the VIA Clubhouse being severely damaged, the Village Improvement Association knew that the town would recover but had an idea to use materials that were no longer usable for repairs to construct something to memorialize this event in a positive and sustainable manner. Thus, members of the VIA thought these materials would be perfect for constructing a fishing pier that both children and their families could enjoy.
"They teamed up with city management who provided the materials, but the VIA would be responsible for labor costs which at that time were $600. Even though the clubhouse was damaged, the pure care and love for the community pushed them to move forward with the project. In 1963, the Children's Fishing Pier at Lake Gerar bridge was completed and still stands today despite pressure to demolish the pier when the brick bridge was installed in 2007 with help of city leaders.
"We continue to hold the values that those before us have had, for over 109 years since the VIA was founded, and want to create a safe, fun, and happy environment for both residents and everyone who comes to our great beach community; and this would not be possible without the support of you," said Patin.
The newly refurbished fishing pier is located on Lake Gerar Land is open year-round for families to come fish and make memories that will be everlasting. Lake Gerar also offers a variety of plants, flowers, a playground, and more; making it a popular place for both residents and tourists to explore.
Before the official unveiling of the historical marker, many addressed their support for the VIA and the community of Rehoboth. "Rehoboth Beach is blessed with great public servants, great community members, and great organizations such as the VIA. The VIA always rises to the occasion and is continuing to create places that can be enjoyed by us and future generations. I look forward to continuing to help honor the works of those that are helping to make this town something to truly celebrate every day," added Lopez.
"I am so glad to be a part of this and want to thank the VIA for all they do for the community. When you have an idea, you go out and pursue it; which makes our community so unique and tight-knit.
"I am proud to be able to help shed light on this great accomplishment and historical landmark today," said Schwartzkopf.
"The VIA is such a wonderful organization, and I thank you. I feel honored and special to represent you, and my door is always open for your suggestions. I know that there are more historical markers and celebrations to come," added Mayor Paul Kuhns.
Marz then addressed the crowd before the dedication. "Adding another historical marker to the First State's collection of over 570 throughout Delaware is truly an honor.
"It is extremely important to recognize our state history, its significance, and the value that it has to our community. The VIA has shown that the projects they undertake and the donations they make improve the quality of life in Rehoboth. Like they say in Delaware, we truly all are family."
For more information regarding the Children's Fishing Pier, go to www.cityofrehoboth.com/visitors/parks-and-recreation.
