Object of the Month: Commemorating the Courage of Runswick Bay's Women

Taken from the Staithes Museum Newsletter issue 12, April 2025

On April 12, 1901, a fierce North Sea storm threatened the lives of Runswick Bay's fishermen, all of whom were out at sea. With no able-bodied men ashore, the women of the village - wives, daughters, and sweethearts - took it upon themselves to launch the lifeboat to rescue their loved ones. Twenty women hauled the three-ton lifeboat across the beach and into the tumultuous waters. While the rowing was undertaken by older men, the women's efforts in

launching the boat were pivotal.

Their heroism was celebrated nationwide, with newspapers hailing them as modern-day Grace Darlings. A commemorative Carlton Ware piece, catalogued as SSESM.2019.366, was produced to honour this act of bravery. Additionally, a postcard titled "The brave women of Runswick Bay who launched the lifeboat to save their husbands April 12th 1901" captures the women in their bonnets, standing resolute by the lifeboat.

Beyond this singular event, the women of Runswick Bay played a continuous role in supporting the lifeboat service. The Women's Guild, comprising the crew's wives, organized Lifeboat Day, manning stalls and raising funds to ensure the lifeboat's operation.

These artefacts serve as enduring reminders of the community's spirit and the indispensable role of women in maritime history.

Update in 2026

The carlton ware is not on display at the moment, but the womens' involvement in the lifeboat was mentioned in the film about local fishing, What the Sea Saw - now available to watch on the museum's youtube channel.