Heroes of the Storm

Step into the boots of a US Life Saving Service surfman! Sleeping Bear Dunes needs you—especially kids—to help practice the Beach Apparatus Drill.

 

The Beach Apparatus was a land-based rescue method used by the US Life-Saving Service. A small cannon sent ropes out to a sinking ship, creating a zip-line from the ship to the shore. The apparatus saved thousands of lives nationwide, including here in the Manitou Passage.

 

Join the demonstration to help "fire" a kid-powered Lyle Gun and rescue victims from a "shipwreck". No experience necessary, just a sense of adventure! Perfect for families, kids, and anyone curious about Great Lakes Maritime history. Arrive a few minutes early as drills begin on Thursday at 3 pm sharp.

 

In past years, after the demonstration, a replica Lyle gun was fired on the beach using a black-powder charge. This firing will not occur in 2026. National Park Service historic weapons demonstrations can only be conducted by a certified Historic Weapons Supervisor. Sleeping Bear Dunes is currently without a Historic Weapons Supervisor.
Location: Program will take place in the green space between the Maritime Museum and the Boathouse.