Lightship Overfalls Maritime Scholarship applications due April 25

The Overfalls Foundation is accepting applications for the Lightship Overfalls 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 on pursuing a college degree in the study of maritime, marine or environmental areas. 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 either at the school counselor’s office or by going on the foundation’s website at overfalls.org. 

For consideration, applications are due in the guidance counselor’s office by Monday, April 25.

The Lightship Overfalls was the last lightship constructed for the United States Lighthouse Service before the service became part of the United States Coast Guard. It is currently preserved in Lewes as a museum ship. Unlike most U.S. lightships, this ship 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, it 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. 

It remains in Lewes and is available for tours.