The Squan Beach Life Saving Station Preservation Committee (SBLSPC) will hold a fundraiser Saturday, Sept. 8 at 8 p.m. on the anniversary of the Morro Castle Ship Disaster of 1934, organizers said. 

Author and local historian Gary S. Crawford, of Neptune, will give a presentation of the 78th anniversary of the Morro Castle disaster, according to a release from SBLSPC President Lia Trench. 

The Morro Castle was a cruise ship that sank off the coast of Asbury Park, Trench said. 

The committee recently restored the lifesaving station, which is now open to the public as a maritime shipwreck museum.  

Reservations can be made for the Morro Castle event by calling Lia Trench, President of SBLSPC, Inc. at 732-223-2231 and sending a check for $10 per person to Lia at 444 E. Main St., Manasquan, NJ 08736.

Seating is limited to 80 people, Trench said.

"A lifelong resident of the Jersey Shore, Crawford has researched this fascinating subject, brought on by his grandfather and other family members’ involvement in the rescue," the release says.

"He has given this intriguing presentation for many years and has written a companion book to go along with his lecture series.  He has also written other books on historical subjects and even a horror novel, along with articles in various magazines and newspapers," the release says.

The station has been declared a national historical site and all contributions are tax deductible.

All donations will be used for additional restoration projects, including a new roof and removal of lead paint and painting of the front and back porches, Trench said.