RALEIGH — Throughout the month of February, we’re taking a look at the lesser known stories of African American history in North Carolina. A life-saving station along the coast known as the Pea Island Life-Saving Station, was the first in the country to have an all-black crew lead by commanding officer Richard Etheridge. 

Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair sat down with Earl Ijames, curator at the North Carolina History Museum, for a look at the history making crew. To learn more about the Pea Island Lifesavers and Captain Richard Etheridge, visit the Town of Manteo’s website and the National Park Service’s website