Galveston Unveils Historical Marker for First Black Lifeguards Who Patrolled Segregated Beaches and Saved Over 30 Lives

Honoring Galveston’s First Black Lifeguards

A new historical marker now stands along the Galveston Seawall, recognizing the city’s first Black lifeguards who patrolled segregated beaches and saved over 30 lives. The marker, unveiled on February 1, sheds light on a long-overlooked chapter of history.

According to the Texas Historical Commission, these lifeguards served from 1930 to 1962, ensuring safety for Black beachgoers during segregation. Their impact stretched beyond the shoreline, as they were highly respected community members who often worked multiple jobs to support their families.

The Legacy of Black Lifeguards on Brown Beach

The marker is located near 27th Street, in an area once known as Brown Beach—a designated beach for Black residents under Jim Crow laws.

David Mitchell, chair of the African American Beach Lifeguard Memorial project, emphasized the significance of this recognition. “These lifeguards protected and served their community for decades, yet their contributions remained largely unknown,” he said.

Among the first Black lifeguards were James “Jim” Helton, who began in 1935, and Waverly Guidry, who joined in 1943. Both men are credited with saving multiple lives and recovering the bodies of those lost to the sea.

A Monument to Courage and Service

The Texas Historical Commission designated this site as an “under-told” history marker, part of an initiative to highlight overlooked stories.

Carol Bunch Davis, a historian specializing in African American culture, explained the importance of these lifeguards. “They were pillars of their community, serving in many roles beyond lifeguarding,” she said. “Some were longshoremen, small business owners, and mentors.”

The memorial project consists of three phases. The first was installing the marker. Next, a digital database will be developed to document Black beach history in Galveston. The final phase will include a sculpture honoring past and present Black lifeguards.

Remembering Segregation’s Challenges

Many Galveston residents, including Sharley Adams, recall the struggles of segregation. “We wanted to integrate downtown, but we weren’t allowed,” she said. “Even though our parents paid taxes here, we couldn’t sit at lunch counters.”

She also remembered facing racism when trying to access the city’s whites-only beach. “It was traumatic,” she said. “I realized it wasn’t about anything else but my skin color.”

Preserving an Important Piece of History

This marker not only recognizes the lifeguards’ bravery but also serves as a reminder of segregation’s impact.

Mitchell believes this acknowledgment is essential, especially today. “It highlights the necessity of inclusiveness and ensuring history reflects all who contributed to our communities,” he said.

The installation of this marker is just the beginning. As Galveston continues preserving its history, these lifeguards will no longer be forgotten.