History and Information #
Galloo Island, nestled along the northeastern shore of Lake Ontario, holds the remnants of a once vital Coast Guard station. The station, established in 1937, played a crucial role in safeguarding the waters and assisting mariners in distress. Located in Gil Harbor, the station’s Chatham-type station house and three-bay boathouse were constructed with great anticipation and dedication.
Prior to the establishment of the Galloo Island station, the Big Sandy Life-Saving Station had been responsible for operations in the area since 1876. However, discussions had been ongoing since 1921 about relocating the station to Galloo Island. Finally, in 1934, the site at Gil Harbor was acquired, and construction of the station commenced. By 1937, the station was operational, ready to serve the mariners navigating Lake Ontario’s treacherous waters.
For nearly four decades, the Galloo Island Coast Guard Station stood as a beacon of hope, offering aid and support to those in need. However, in 1973, as operations were transferred to stations in Oswego and Alexandria Bay, the station’s significance gradually faded. Today, the station house, boathouse, flag tower, and some outbuildings remain, under the ownership of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC). Sadly, these structures have fallen into disrepair over the years, with only the remnants telling the tales of bravery and resilience.
The Galloo Island Coast Guard Station was not the only maritime presence on the island. Galloo Island also held the Galloo Island Lighthouse, which dates back to 1820, with the current light dating from 1867. Although the Coast Guard maintains the light, they no longer possess any property or structures on the island.
While the former lifeboat station sits on publicly owned land, access to the site has been discouraged by private landowners who own most of the island. The absence of dockage further complicates direct access to the station, making it challenging for visitors to explore this piece of maritime history.
The parcels owned by the NYDEC form part of the Lake Ontario Islands Wildlife Management Area, encompassing Galloo Island, Little Galloo Island, and Gull Island. Managed as a fish and bird refuge, these parcels are crucial for preserving the natural ecosystem. However, the NYDEC has expressed no interest in utilizing or maintaining the old Coast Guard station buildings, opting instead to allow them to succumb to natural deterioration. Preserving these historic structures would likely require their relocation from the site, a process that poses various challenges and uncertainties.
Unmarked hazards, such as a snag and a wreck, serve as reminders of the dangers that mariners faced when navigating the waters near Galloo Shoal. These hazards stand as a testament to the importance of navigational aids and the role that the Coast Guard played in ensuring safe passage for vessels in the area.
As time passes, the Galloo Island Coast Guard Station fades into obscurity, its significance overshadowed by the passage of years and the shifting priorities of maritime operations. Yet, for those who recognize its historical value, the station remains a symbol of dedication and service. It stands as a reminder of the brave men and women who risked their lives to protect mariners, and of the enduring importance of preserving our maritime heritage for future generations.
Photo Gallery 2023 CC Daniel Gildea #
Drone Footage 2023 CC Daniel Gildea #
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