Durant Lifesaving Station was built in 1879 as a part of the U.S. Lifesaving Service. It has since become a monument of the Durant Station Condominium complex.
Durant was part of a series of stations across Hatteras Island and the east coast. It was formerly named Hatteras, but it was changed in 1883 due to a naming complication with the Cape Hatteras station further north.
The station was decommissioned In 1939 after functioning for almost six decades.
The station lived connected to the Durant Station motel complex as a memorial until 2003 when Hurricane Isabel hit. Only a large cistern survived the hurricane.
The lot would stay empty until 2007 until the Durant Station condominium complex, named to honor the station’s legacy, was constructed.
The U.S. Lifesaving Service was dedicated to rescuing sailors and citizens from the perils of the ocean. These surfmen would patrol the banks to spot and promptly respond to emergencies at sea from their station only a few hundred feet off the shore. The location allowed for the smooth equipment transition from land to sea.
The lifesaving service came from the importance of the Outer Banks commercial shipping system. Centuries ago, wooden ships would transport goods such as coal and sugar along the coast of the Outer Banks. The casualties from the shoals of Hatteras Island earned this area the nickname: The Graveyard of the Atlantic. Since the risk of a shipwreck was high, it was important for these men to be ready at any moment.
Durant aided in many rescues in its lifetime, including that of a Captain Heal, who thanked and commended the surfmen in this letter.
But as time went on, the need for many lifesaving stations diminished, and many were abandoned. Some were torn down, others were destroyed by nature, and few were memorialized.
Experience the history of Durant Station for yourself. Look out on the porch and imagine the daring rescues and the pride these men felt in their work.
History adds another layer of meaning and depth to the present. Take part in the history of Durant and book your stay here today with up to 3-bedroom condos, pool, game rooms, and lounges!
Durant Clubhouse has all you’ll need for family, friends, or business groups! Take full advantage of amenities like wireless internet, a fully equipped kitchen, pool table, kids game room, and lounge!
