Bulletin - Vol 8 No. 5 September/October 2005

Opening of Museum of Lighthouse History, USA

edited by Steve Merson, Chief Editor, LoA Inc

Sunday, 7 August 2005 was a grand opening day and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the expansion of the Museum of Lighthouse History in Wells, Maine USA. The museum features the nation's largest collection of rare lighthouse artefacts, including lighthouse lanterns, keepers' uniforms, coins, photos, documents and flags, among a host of other things.

The ceremony featured Coast Guard officials and lighthouse enthusiasts who spoke and raised the flag of the old US Lighthouse Service, which oversaw the nation's lighthouses from 1910 to 1939.

The Coast Guard presented a meritorious public service award to Timothy Harrison, who founded the lighthouse museum and has been involved in numerous lighthouse preservation and restoration efforts. Tim is president of the American Lighthouse Foundation.

7 August 1989 was the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Lighthouse Act and the commissioning of the first Federal lighthouse in the United States.

"Lighthouses played an integral role in the early history of this country, and they epitomise the values of safety, heroism, and American ingenuity. This celebration will hopefully encourage communities and citizens groups around the country to re-dedicate themselves to the protection and restoration of these historic structures.

As America continues its technological progress into the 21st century, it becomes easy to forget the wholesomeness and serenity of pre-industrial establishments such as lighthouses. The history they provide gives us the opportunity to step back in time and learn more about our country. The contributions they made to our society, from protecting our coasts to guiding our sailors, should continue to be appreciated and remembered."

The ceremony commemorated the only museum in the country solely dedicated to sharing with the general public the countless stories of valour, sacrifice and dedication to duty exhibited by past lightkeepers. Through their selflessness and heroism, keepers and their families helped save the lives of mariners, immigrants and fishermen over a period of 275 years, dating back to the first lighthouse constructed at Boston Light Station in 1716.

Tim Harrison, "the keepers' keeper", described the purpose of the museum as "A tool to help educate the general public about lighthouses and why it is important to save them and preserve their history."

The American Lighthouse Foundation has a partnership with the United States Coast Guard and local communities to preserve the 20 historic lights under the organization’s stewardship. The Museum’s mission is "To leave the light on for future generations so they may appreciate and understand the importance of America’s rich lighthouse heritage."

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