Cape Cod Assembly Endorses Construction of Ocean Rescue Museum
Published on: August 14, 2026
Resolution backs effort to permanently preserve and exhibit the historic CG36500 motor lifeboat
August 14, 2026 (Barnstable, MA) – The Cape Cod Regional Government’s Assembly of Delegates voted to support the Orleans Historical Society’s construction of the Ocean Rescue Museum of Cape Cod preserving the historic CG36500 motor lifeboat and sharing Cape Cod’s rich lifesaving heritage with future generations.
The CG36500 is an 80-year-old wooden motor lifeboat listed on the National Register of Historic Places, renowned for its role in rescuing 32 crew members of the tanker SS Pendleton during a fierce storm in February 1952. The proposed museum in Orleans will provide permanent indoor protection for the aging vessel, which cannot continue to be preserved in the water year-round. The site will also celebrate over 400 years of Outer Cape lifesaving history, beginning with the 1626 rescue of the Sparrow-Hawk by the Nauset Tribe.
“This is a win-win for the nonprofit and also for the Assembly,” said sponsor and Wellfleet Delegate Lilli-Ann Green also speaking in favor.
“They towed this boat up the street so it could be present when the movie the Finest Hours premiered in Chatham,” said Orleans Delegate Jon R. Fuller, a co-sponsor of the resolution, noting the vessel’s local significance and urging support.
“Time takes a toll. This is American history as well as our local Cape Cod history, and it’s an important thing to stand up for ” said Mashpee Delegate Greg McKelvey.
“Those of us who volunteered and worked on this national treasure for years are sadly aware that an 80-year-old wooden boat cannot stay in the water forever,” said Howard Gostin, a board member of the Orleans Historical Society. “An endorsement from the Assembly of Delegates will be a big help as we navigate the waters of fundraising for the museum from our donors and for grants”.
“I am excited about the impact this resolution has on our ability to execute such an important project,” said Liz Adams, capital campaign director for the Orleans Historical Society.
A copy of the resolution is available by clicking here. The support letter is available by clicking this link.
ABOUT THE ASSEMBLY OF DELEGATES
The Assembly of Delegates is the legislative branch of Cape Cod Regional Government. It is composed of 15 delegates—one elected from each town—with votes weighted by population, who make laws, set policies, and approve spending.
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