First lifeguards on Fort Lauderdale's beach in ...

 

Fort Lauderdale lifeguard station 1974
Florida State Archives

By Jane Feehan

The first bridge to Fort Lauderdale's barrier island and its beach (at Las Olas) was built in 1917. Sun bathers and swimmers soon followed. But, it wasn't until August 1926 that "civic groups" asked the city commission for lifeguards at the popular bathing spot.

"Since large crowds gathered each day ... the city should do everything possible to increase attractiveness of the beach."

Swimmers at Las Olas beach 1917
Florida State Archives

They asked for one lifeguard at all times during the day, and two present during busy hours. The civic leaders also asked for a pontooon and other boat, a "pulmotor," be available for their use.

It came to be. The first Fort Lauderdale beach lifeguard reported Dec. 1, 1926 at 1:30 pm. Two guards would be on hand thereafter for Sundays and holidays A Red Cross medical tent was provided that day for a Red Cross safety drill.

Today a well-trained, athletic group, the Fort Lauderdale Beach Patrol, provides a valuable service to the city’s residents and visitors. Enjoy a glance at different lifeguard stations through the years. These "towers" have come a long, long way in sophistication.

 

Lifeguard station - unknown Florida location, 1965
Florida State Archives

Lifeguard tower Vero Beach, 1969
Florida State Archives

Lifeguard station Fort Lauderdale 2021

Sources:

Fort Lauderdale News, Aug. 17, 1926

Fort Lauderdale News, Nov. 28, 1926

 

Tags:

 Fort Lauderdale Beach, lifeguards, Fort Lauderdale Beach Patrol, Fort Lauderdale history