Restoration of the U.S. Life-Saving Service station building at Vermilion Point will require many donations to return the structure to its original 1876 appearance.

All of the board of directors and members of S.O.S. Vermilion are volunteers and each donation goes toward preserving and restoring this unique piece of Michigan history.

Phase One is to remove the additions, lift up the station, construct a new floor underneath, repair the rotted sills along the walls, and set the building back down on temporary cribbing until it is placed on a new foundation.  This first phase is estimated to cost between $35,000 and $50,000.

Phase Two is to install a cedar shingle roof and period appropriate doors and windows, at an estimated cost of $35,000.

Phase Three is repair and painting of exterior siding and woodwork, at about $25,000.

Phase Four is restoration of the interior and possible exhibits.

Since the station is in a remote location, the total cost for the complete restoration is projected to be about $200,000.  We plan to use volunteers as much as possible to minimize costs.  Restoration will commence in stages as soon as enough funds are raised to cover the cost of each phase.

We have 3 ways you may make a donation.

S.O.S. Vermilion is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and your gifts may be tax deductible. 

Thank you for your contribution!