About
Our History
Since its founding in 1921, the Rehoboth Beach Patrol has enjoyed a proud history rich in tradition and excellence. The following is a sketch of that history. These photographs, some dating back to the 1920’s are displayed in the RBP headquarters. To view these photographs or contribute items to the collection, please contact RBP headquarters, or contact us.
Timeline
1921
Founded by Benjamin F. Shaw and the Red Cross with a total of 2 guards.
1938
Stations set up on Rodney St., Stockely St., Delaware Ave., Wilmington Ave., Rehoboth Ave., Virginia Ave., Henlopen Ave., and Deauville beaches. Patrol enlarged to 17 guards.
1952
Captain Frank Coveleski introduces the lieutenant system. With 2 miles of beach divided into 4 sections, each supervised by a lieutenant. Total of 17 guards.
1956
Resuscitator and inhaler introduced as standard beach patrol equipment. Total of 20 guards
1962
New beach patrol headquarters built at Baltimore Ave. and the Boardwalk, with a complete First-Aid facility. Total of 23 guards.
1965
Portable oxygen units introduced on major beaches. Total of 25 guards.
1978
Beach expansion on north and south ends. Total of 30 guards.
1987
New beach patrol headquarters and first-aid facility. Total of 42 guards.
1991
Beach expanded 150 ft. past south end of boardwalk.
1996
USLA Regional Championships added to RBP summer event schedule. Celebrated 75 years of service. Alumni Association formed by Bill Vernon, T.C Coveleski, Kent Buckson, Herb Miller, Pete Hartsock and Andy Walsh.
1998
1st drowning located off Hickman/Brooklyn Jetty. Mike Johnson was 24 years old.
2000
Norfolk and Little Wilmington doubled. Total patrol increased to 45 guards.
2006
Beach Patrol’s 85th Anniversary.
2007
30th Anniversary of the Rehoboth Beach Lifeguard Olympics.
2011
Beach Patrol’s 90th Anniversary
2015
Rehoboth Beach Patrol takes over supervision of the handicap beach wheelchairs.
2021
Beach Patrol Celebrates 100th Year. Tradition of Ringing RBP bell to signal the start of our watch.