enjoy great food,
lots of desserts, and entertainment provided by Ruth Farris on the piano and
Terry Rowden, and Pam Cates playing the pans. Interestingly, Rowden is a
former keeper at the lighthouse.
The crowd was a motivated one, as was obvious, when they all joined in
robust singing of the “Legend of the Lighthouse” that was played to the tune
of “America the Beautiful,” as well as the resounding rounds of applause
given to the entertainment.
Nearly 25 raffle prizes were awarded from items that were donated by the
Little River Lodge, West Quoddy Gifts, Spoontiques, Lighthouse Digest and a
Harbour Lights replica of the lighthouse that was donated by Lighthouse
Depot, which the friends group is also selling to raise money for the
ongoing projects at the lighthouse.
An impromptu auction for an overnight stay with dinner for two at the
lighthouse created some lively bidding, especially when Stephen Cates said
he would donate, “all the lobster you can eat,” for the dinner.
The volunteer supporters said they need to raise money for a variety of
projects at the lighthouse and their “wish list,” which was given to
attendees, includes money and labor for a permanent pier, a portable
defibulator for the island, picnic tables, a new boat and larger engine, a
water filtration system, and furnishings for the lighthouse.
Tim Harrison, one of the founders of the group, said what they need the most
is more volunteers to help with the various projects and ongoing maintenance
of the historic lighthouse. He went on to say, “Our goal is to open the
island for such things as church services, family reunions, weddings,
community picnics, cancer support groups and overnight stays. But, in order
to do so, we need a permanent pier for safe access and departure and that
will cost some serious money and we need the help of the people here in
“Downeast” Maine. We’ve saved and restored the light station but desperately
need that pier.
This past Aprils’ storm did some damage to their efforts at the lighthouse,
including some serious damage to the windows of the lantern room of the
tower and caused heavy damage to the temporary construction dock at the
light.
Finnegan said the benefit supper raised nearly $1,200.00, (a figure that
does not include the auction for the overnight stay), and shows the
commitment the community has toward the lighthouse. The group plans other
fundraisers throughout the summer and they will have a booth at the upcoming
Wild Blueberry Festival with merchandise for sale.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, serving on a committee or
making a donation you can call Tim Harrison at 259-3638 or Kathy Finnegan at
259-2121 or by mail to The Friends of Little River Lighthouse, P.O. Box 671,
East Machias, ME 04630.
