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Discover the People, Histories, and Stories Connected to Maine Lighthouses in Penobscot Bay & the Western Mount Desert Island Region

Like bright stars in a constellation that dot Maine’s coast and inland waterways, lighthouses are familiar beacons of hope for mariners and, like mariners, have plenty of stories to tell. From the history of their construction, and sometimes destruction, to births, deaths, romance, and shipwrecks, heroes, storms, and the daily lives of those connected to them, these pillars of light in the darkness and guiding sound in the fog are witnesses to the state of Maine and our country’s historical maritime evolution.

A strong connection exists between people and lighthouses, which are symbols of hope, faithful watchfulness, steadfast endurance through raging storms, and unwavering duty to the safety of others. Some were lonely outposts in the middle of the ocean where winter gales could blow 70mph, raising the seas so high they would crash over the top of the lighthouse, with keepers and their families knowing that with every break of the waves, it could be the last of the station and their lives. Others on the mainland became lively attractions and part of the community, with locals frequenting the station, often becoming friends with the keeper and their family, and curious summer visitors flocking to the station for lighthouse tours.

Between 1791 and 1910, the government established 66 lighthouses along the Maine coast as maritime commerce increased. Discover the history of 20 of these lighthouses and the stories about the tireless and brave men, women, and their families who sacrificed the comforts of home and their safety to keep the lights burning and help mariners navigate these treacherous and often deadly waters. Read about their adventures, dangers they faced, lives they saved, friendships they forged, the animals who lived with them, comical moments, and the love many of them deeply felt for the unique and now vanished way of life living in a lighthouse.

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