From the Staithes Museum Newsletter, April 2026. This month, we are delighted to share a remarkable story sent to us by researcher John Stafford—one that connects Redcar, Staithes, and a long tradition of remembrance shaped by the sea. At its heart is William Guy, a Redcar lifeboatman who lost his life on Christmas Day in 1836. That day, a violent storm drove the Danish brig Caroline onto the treacherous Salt Scar rocks, just off Redcar. In response, the Zetland lifeboat—buil

From the February 2026 newsletter In the fiercely independent seafaring community of Staithes, survival at sea was never taken for granted. To navigate the treacherous North Sea, fishermen relied on more than just their legendary seamanship; they carried traditions intended to ward off misfortune. Among the most enduring of these was the practice of fastening a "lucky stone" to the inwire of a coble. The Lore of the lucky stone Locally known in the dialect as a "lucky-steean"

Forget-me-not ring donated to Jane Harrison, donated to Jane Harrison by a Birmingham Jeweller, after the 1815 fishing disaster which claimed the lives of 29 fishermen, leaving 16 widows—seven of whom were pregnant—and 48 children fatherless. This Memorial Board display is shown each year during the Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage. It was created by local historian Bill Hinchley to honour the memory of the Staithes fishermen who drowned at sea. The memorial board is th

We are thrilled to present "What the Sea Saw," a captivating short film that delves into the rich maritime heritage of Staithes, Yorkshire. This film showcases archival footage and personal memories from the local fishing community, offering a poignant glimpse into their lives and traditions. Digital Drama Produced by Digital Drama, "What the Sea Saw" is now available for viewing on our YouTube channel. We invite you to immerse yourself in this evocative portrayal of Staithes