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lighthouse is
listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places and is one
of the oldest lighthouses in Narragansett Bay.
“The Pomham Rocks
Lighthouse is an important part of Narragansett Bay’s heritage,” said Dennis
Houston, executive vice president of ExxonMobil Refining & Supply. “In an
era when lighthouses are disappearing from the national landscape, this
donation will help ensure Pomham Rocks is preserved for future generations
as a symbol of commerce and maritime safety. Pomham Rocks will stand as a
majestic and bright light that reinforces the importance of commerce and
maritime excellence to Rhode Island, New England and the United States of
America.”
ExxonMobil
purchased the lighthouse and surrounding property from the U.S. government
in 1981. The lighthouse was recently appraised at $680,000.
In 2004, the
American Lighthouse Foundation, the Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse and
ExxonMobil formed a unique community partnership to preserve this historic
treasure. Through the partnership, the exterior of the lighthouse was
restored in 2005. A red navigational beacon was reestablished inside the
historic tower, returning it to its time-honored role along Narragansett
Bay.
The restoration
was paid for through a combination of private fundraising and a donation
from ExxonMobil.
“We applaud
ExxonMobil’s generosity in donating the lighthouse to us and its willingness
to partner with us over the years to keep it a part of the Narragansett Bay
landscape,” said Bob Trapani, Executive Director, American Lighthouse
Foundation. “We now look forward to beginning preparations for the
restoration of the interior of the structure and continuing to ‘keep a good
light’ for all who admire this Ocean State historic treasure.”
Posted:
4/17/2010
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