A quiet, powerful moment of remembrance took place last Saturday as the Newport Historical Society, the U.S. Lighthouse Society, and the U.S. Coast Guard came together to honor one of America’s greatest maritime heroes — Idawalley “Ida” Zoradia Lewis.
In a graveside ceremony at her final resting place, a bronze U.S. Lighthouse Service grave marker was placed beside her headstone, which reads:
“The Grace Darling of America; Keeper of Lime Rock Lighthouse Newport Harbor, Feb 25, 1842 ~ Oct 24, 1911. Dedicated by her many kind friends.”
Lewis, whose name still echoes in the annals of U.S. maritime history, was celebrated for her unparalleled bravery as the keeper of Lime Rock Light in Newport Harbor. She was the first woman awarded the U.S. Coast Guard’s prestigious Gold Lifesaving Medal, the highest honor for lifesaving in the nation.
According to official records, Lewis rescued 18 people from the treacherous waters off Newport — including soldiers from Fort Adams — though local lore puts that number as high as 36. Rain, snow, icy waters — none of it stopped her when someone was in danger. She rowed out fearlessly, again and again.
Her contributions didn’t just save lives — they fortified the very idea of what it means to serve. In fact, her legacy lives on far beyond Rhode Island. She is honored at Arlington National Cemetery, where Lewis Drive became the first road there ever named after a woman. And the USCGC Ida Lewis, a coastal buoy tender, continues her watch in service of the nation.
Her life wasn’t just one of duty — it was one of courage, compassion, and quiet strength. And now, over a century later, her hometown is still proud to say: Ida Lewis kept the light — and the lives — of Newport safe.
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