LV-49

In 1888, to assist mariners find the entrance to Chesapeake Bay, the Lighthouse Service established a lightship station east of Smith's Island (and the Cape Charles Lighthouse). The 1888 Report to Congress reads, "Cape Charles Light-ship, No. 46, off the entrance to Chesapeake Bay, Virginia - This vessel was placed in position just outside of Smith's Island Shoal on February 17, 1888. She has ridden out several heavy gales and proved herself an excellent sea-boat and a valuable aid to the navigation of the coast."