2024 Overfalls gala raises funds for maritime landmark

The Overfalls Foundation held Anchors Aweigh, an annual fundraising gala, at the Lewes Yacht Club Oct.12. Nearly 100 guests enjoyed a buffet dinner, cash bar and live auction. Entertainment was provided by the popular local band Hot Sauce.

The foundation collects, preserves, teaches and honors the maritime history of Lewes, Delaware Bay and the coastal region. The foundation is an all-volunteer organization that supports preservation and maintenance of the landmark Lightship Overfalls, anchored at Canalfront Park in Lewes. The foundation offers local scholarships and educational programs. The lightship is the only National Historic Landmark in Sussex County and the only maritime landmark in Delaware.

“This was a nice evening. Everyone had a great time and raised funds for a good cause,” said sponsor Stephanie Boright of Coastal Cottage Renovations. “At Coastal Cottage Renovations, we’re all about preserving historic properties, so it seemed only fitting to extend our support to historic boats as well.”

The live auction included opportunities to spend time on the water sailing on the Legacy, Cape May-Lewes Ferry, Cape Water Taxi, or with the Freedom Boat Club. In addition, an Echo Bay Dory skiff was auctioned off to an ardent sailor. The work of local artists Stephanie Faust, Kim Johnson and Howard Schroeder were included in the auction as well. The final two auction items were a year’s worth of flowers from Floral Inspirations and a dinner, show and overnight stay for two at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, N.J.

“The Overfalls Foundation mission of preserving, teaching and honoring the United States Lightship Service and the maritime history of our community is a labor of love by the all-volunteer team making up the foundation,“ said board member Patty Jackson. “In addition to the many hours they contribute, it is the financial support of our greater Lewes community that makes it all possible.”