Lifesaving Legacy: 165 Years of Fowey Lifeboats Exhibition – See the History Come Alive!

Photo Credit: Nigel Hall

Fowey lifeboat station volunteers are hosting an extraordinary exhibition to commemorate 165 years of lifesaving history. This special event will take place at Fowey Town Hall, opening daily from 11 am, starting Thursday, 1st August, and running until Sunday, 4th August.

A Tribute to Lifesavers

This exhibition not only marks the 165th anniversary of the Fowey lifeboat station but also celebrates the 200th anniversary of the RNLI charity. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a treasure trove of photographs showcasing the station’s remarkable past. Many of these images have never been seen by the public before, depicting the journey from Polkerris in 1859 with wooden rowing lifeboats and cork lifejackets to the modern lifeboats used today.

Photo Credit: Fowey RNLI

Dramatic Rescues and Historical Insights

Attendees can delve into the dramatic rescues of yesteryear and learn how lifeboat crews operated in the past. The exhibition will feature interviews and videos with both current and past crew members, alongside dramatic rescue footage and photos. A lifesize Arancia lifeboat will be on display for visitors to take selfies, and a 4ft working replica model of Fowey’s all-weather lifeboat will also be showcased.

Hands-On Experiences and Exclusive Merchandise

Visitors can see the full crew kit up close and gain insight into what it is like to be an RNLI lifeboat volunteer. RNLI merchandise will be available for purchase, along with links to download the new RNLI Storm Force game. Additionally, a specially commissioned picture of one of the very first Fowey lifeboats will be on display, with limited edition prints available for enthusiasts.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Barker

Honouring Young Talent

The exhibition will also feature the winner of the local children’s lifeboat art competition, highlighting the artistic talents of the younger generation in honour of the lifeboat station’s storied past.

A Message from the Organisers

Cathy Baillie, Fowey lifeboat press officer, shared, “As we were making plans to celebrate 200 years of the RNLI in Fowey, it seemed appropriate to also celebrate the history of our own station. This is the first time the station has put on a display like this and we have gathered a huge amount of fascinating material, with photos of the people who have been at the heart of Fowey RNLI going back through the generations, plus images and anecdotes from those who have volunteered and supported the charity over its 165 year history. We hope as many people as possible can come along to find out more about our amazing Fowey RNLI lifeboat story.”

Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Fowey lifeboats and the remarkable legacy of lifesaving that spans over a century and a half.

Photo Credit: Fowey RNLI