This ship served off the entrance of the Cape Fear River by Wilmington, North Carolina and is still afloat, only today in New York City and hosting parties and gatherings.
Nine lightships guarded the infamous Frying Pan Shoals of the Cape Fear River from 1854 to 1964 with the exceptions of the Civil War and World War II. The lighthouse at nearby Bald Head Island was not strong enough to warn shipping.
The LV-115 was built 1929-1930 and stationed at Frying Pan Shoals from 1930 to 1942 and again from 1945 to 1964, when it was replaced by a light tower. During World War II (1942-1945) it was an examination vessel, used to check all shipping coming into the Cape Fear River. Examination ships generally mounted one or more machine guns and were supported by shore batteries so I imagine it was stationed near Southport.
It sank in 1986, was raised the following year and restoration began in 1988.
It still has the name Frying Pan on the sides. Probably a good name for what is actually a floating bar today.
Getting Fried at the Fry. --Cooter
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