(L to R) ALF President Eric Davis and NELL President Tom Kenworthy present Lynne Kerber with a 2012 ALF "Len Hadley Volunteerism Award" for her dedicated efforts to the NELL mission (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the 2012 ALF “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award,” which was presented to twelve outstanding volunteers throughout the organization.

The New England Lighthouse Lovers (NELL) recognized Lynne Kerber (as well as Kevin Sullivan) this year with the honor for her above and beyond contributions to ALF/NELL’s mission.

Lynne Kerber helping to repaint Long Point Lighthouse on Cape Cod (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

The following text was read to attendees at the lighthouse gala as Lynne Kerber was presented with her 2012 “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award”…

“Lynne joined the New England Lighthouse Lovers in 2004. She has been a very active member from the beginning, attending our events and meetings. A few years after joining, she became a member of the Board of Directors. Once on the board Lynne took on the daunting task of resurrecting our newsletter, ‘The Beacon.’

After the board voted and approved that the Beacon be in color and mailed to all members Lynne sent out the call for stories, recipes, and pictures. It seemed like it was going to be easier than it actually was. The first issued proved a very difficult job. No one sent their stories in. Not to be discouraged Lynne scratched and clawed a few stories from a few members and was finally able to publish the newsletter.

Lynne’s tenacity finally started to pay off and we now publish the Beacon three times a year. She still has to ask, and even sometimes almost beg for articles, but somehow she gets the job done.

Lynne has also participated in NELL’s Project H.O.P.E. (hands on preservation effort) at Race point and Wood End. Besides her duties with NELL, Lynne is also a volunteer keeper at Race Point Lighthouse.

Bob and Lynne Kerber at Wood End Lighthouse during a NELL Project HOPE volunteer work day (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

This year Lynne expressed her desire to step up to the new position of 2nd VP. This is a position I feel she would serve in very well. Lynne, thank you for all you have done for NELL.”

Did you know?

The American Lighthouse Foundation’s “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award” was named after Len Hadley, one of the original volunteers of the organization in 1994. Len possessed a wonderful personality and ability to connect with others, and was a stellar volunteer for a number of ALF projects throughout the years.

The vital pillar supporting the American Lighthouse Foundation’s success in preservation, education and public access programs over the past eighteen years has undeniably been the dedication of ALF volunteers such as Len Hadley.

When Len sadly passed away in October 2000, the ALF board of directors honored his uncommon dedication to volunteerism by naming an award after him that would recognize other outstanding ALF volunteers for the same passion, selflessness and commitment to lighthouse preservation for which Len stood for.

(L to R) NELL volunteers Tom Kenworthy, Alan Ells and Lynne Kerber during a "light" moment at lunch. The volunteers were taking a break from repainting Wood End Lighthouse during a NELL Project HOPE work day. (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

(L to R) ALF President Eric Davis and New London Ledge Lighthouse Foundation chairman Todd Gipstein present John Mazzucchi with a 2012 ALF "Len Hadley Volunteerism Award" (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the 2012 ALF “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award,” which was presented to twelve outstanding volunteers throughout the organization.

The New London Ledge Lighthouse Foundation (NLLLF) recognized John J. Mazzucchi this year with the honor for his above and beyond contributions to ALF/NLLLF’s mission.

John Mazzucchi helping paint on the interior of Connecticut's New London Ledge Lighthouse (Photo courtesy of Todd Gipstein)

The following text was read to attendees at the lighthouse gala as John J. Mazzucchi was presented with his 2012 “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award”…

“John Mazzucchi first visited Ledge Lighthouse in 2009, and said he was “thankful for being able to step foot on such a beautiful piece of New London history.” After attending a lecture by Ledge Light Foundation President Todd Gipstein in 2010, he offered to help in the restoration work of the lighthouse.

As that work began in earnest in the spring of 2011, John made good on that offer. He was a fixture of the weekly work parties. He scraped, patched, sanded, painted and installed signs, the theater TV, exhibits, flags, and much more.  John even took vacation days to help out at Ledge Light, and when the summer tours began, he became one of our tour guides. He did all this cheerfully, working with great dedication and enthusiasm. He offered many ideas to enhance the restoration efforts, and wants to continue to work and be a tour guide in 2012.

John Mazzucchi has been one of the hardest working volunteers for the New London Ledge Lighthouse the past year, and his commitment shows just how thankful he really is to be a part of the ongoing restoration of this “beautiful piece of New London history.”

John Mazzucchi was honored as an outstanding volunteer at New London Ledge Lighthouse (Photo courtesy of Todd Gipstein)

The New London Ledge Lighthouse Foundation is proud to nominate John Mazzucchi for the American Lighthouse Foundation’s Len Hadley Volunteerism Award.”

Did you know?

The American Lighthouse Foundation’s “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award” was named after Len Hadley, one of the original volunteers of the organization in 1994. Len possessed a wonderful personality and ability to connect with others, and was a stellar volunteer for a number of ALF projects throughout the years.

The vital pillar supporting the American Lighthouse Foundation’s success in preservation, education and public access programs over the past eighteen years has undeniably been the dedication of ALF volunteers such as Len Hadley.

When Len sadly passed away in October 2000, the ALF board of directors honored his uncommon dedication to volunteerism by naming an award after him that would recognize other outstanding ALF volunteers for the same passion, selflessness and commitment to lighthouse preservation for which Len stood for.

(L to R) Todd Gipstein, John Mazzucchi and Jim Streeter at New London Ledge Lighthouse (Photo courtesy of NLLLF)

(L to R) Cape Cod Chapter executive committee members Scott Branco, Bill Jenkins and Gary Childs accept a 2012 "Len Hadley Volunteerism Award" on behalf of Nancy & Clay Beless from ALF President Eric Davis (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the 2012 ALF “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award,” which was presented to twelve outstanding volunteers throughout the organization.

The Cape Cod Chapter of ALF recognized Nancy and Clay Beyless this year with the honor for their above and beyond contributions to ALF/CCC’s mission.

Cape Cod Chapter Chairman Bill Jenkins, Vice-Chair Gary Childs and Treasurer Scott Branco accepted the 2012 “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award” on behalf of Nancy and Clay who were busy working at the Race Point keeper’s house, preparing the dwelling for the upcoming overnight stay season the same night of the gala.

The following text was read to attendees at the lighthouse gala about Nancy and Clay’s dedicated volunteer efforts…

Nancy and Clay Beless were honored for their dedication to Race Point Light Station (Photo courtesy of the Cape Cod Chapter)

“This year, the Cape Cod Chapter of the American Lighthouse Foundation recognizes Nancy and Clay Beless as our stand-out volunteers. They hold genuine enthusiasm and respect for our mission, and a combined drive that says “What can we do?” rather than “What do we get for what we do?” Brought on as keepers for the overnight stay program at Race Point, Nancy and Clay also sit on the Cape Cod Chapter’s Committee as co-Secretaries.

Moreover, Nancy volunteers as our Donations & Charity Requests Director, while Clay also serves as our Lighthouse Tours Director. This outstanding couple has called upon AmeriCorps volunteers to assist with Special Projects at Race Point from planting beach grass to house set-up before the guest season begins. They also help organize our annual Mariner’s Weekend Tour in which over 300 visitors tour the facility on a single Sunday in May.

They have risen above the standards we ask of volunteers and carry a phenomenal share of the load for our chapter. Nancy and Clay, we gratefully thank you for years of outstanding service by presenting to you the 2012 Len Hadley Volunteerism Award.”

Did you know?

The American Lighthouse Foundation’s “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award” was named after Len Hadley, one of the original volunteers of the organization in 1994. Len possessed a wonderful personality and ability to connect with others, and was a stellar volunteer for a number of ALF projects throughout the years.

The vital pillar supporting the American Lighthouse Foundation’s success in preservation, education and public access programs over the past eighteen years has undeniably been the dedication of ALF volunteers such as Len Hadley.

When Len sadly passed away in October 2000, the ALF board of directors honored his uncommon dedication to volunteerism by naming an award after him that would recognize other outstanding ALF volunteers for the same passion, selflessness and commitment to lighthouse preservation for which Len stood for.

Race Point Light Station is a wonderful example of preservation excellence and can be enjoyed by the general public thanks in part to the amazing dedication of volunteers like Nancy and Clay Beless (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

(L to R) Patty Hughes is presented a "Len Hadley Volunteerism Award" by FPPL Treasurer Caren Clark and ALF President Eric Davis (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the 2012 ALF “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award,” which was presented to twelve outstanding volunteers throughout the organization.

The Friends of Pemaquid Point Lighthouse (FPPL) recognized Patty Hughes this year with the honor for her above and beyond contributions to ALF/FPPL’s mission.

The following text was read to attendees at the lighthouse gala as Patty Hughes was presented with her 2012 “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award”…

Patty Hughes (left) helps staff a children's craft table during an event at Pemaquid Point Lighthouse (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

“Patty has served as a friendly, reliable and informed Docent since Pemaquid Point Lighthouse first opened up to the public in 2003. She later became the Historian and Librarian for the chapter in 2005, when the Friends of Pemaquid Point Lighthouse first created a chapter executive committee. 

Patty has also prepared and maintained a scrapbook of FPPL press releases and keeps our library of lighthouse information and books available to share with all our other docents.  She helps out when we host special promotional events and keeps an eye on our lighthouse from her residence, which is close by. On occasion, Patty has also taken on double shifts at the lighthouse when other volunteers could not get there. 

Her ideas and enthusiasm have helped our chapter grow and her dedication provides an excellent role model for our new trainees.  It is always a pleasure to work with her and she always has something valuable to share with our seasonal visitors! Thank you, Patty for being the kind of person we can count on!”

Did you know?

The American Lighthouse Foundation’s “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award” was named after Len Hadley, one of the original volunteers of the organization in 1994. Len possessed a wonderful personality and ability to connect with others, and was a stellar volunteer for a number of ALF projects throughout the years.

The vital pillar supporting the American Lighthouse Foundation’s success in preservation, education and public access programs over the past eighteen years has undeniably been the dedication of ALF volunteers such as Len Hadley.

When Len sadly passed away in October 2000, the ALF board of directors honored his uncommon dedication to volunteerism by naming an award after him that would recognize other outstanding ALF volunteers for the same passion, selflessness and commitment to lighthouse preservation for which Len stood for.

Patty Hughes is one of many dedicated FPPL volunteers who help keep Pemaquid Point Lighthouse open to the public seven days a week from Memorial Day to Columbus Day (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

(L to R) Joseph Estrella is presented with an ALF "Len Hadley Volunteerism Award" by FPRL Chairman David Kelleher, ALF Executive Director Bob Trapani, Jr. and ALF President Eric Davis (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the 2012 ALF “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award,” which was presented to twelve outstanding volunteers throughout the organization.

The Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse (FPRL) recognized Joseph Estrella this year with the honor for his above and beyond contributions to ALF/FPRL’s mission.

One of the many skills that Joseph Estrella brings to FPRL is the ability to handle a boat (Photo courtesy of FPRL)

The following text was read to attendees at the lighthouse gala as Joseph Estrella was presented with his 2012 “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award”…

“Joe Estrella joined our chapter as a volunteer a few years ago, having retired as a consultant for Cox Engineering Firm where he worked on many major consulting projects throughout New England. Joe has now brought many of those same consulting skills to the Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse.

He first got involved with helping FPRL volunteers Rob Charbonneau and Nate Wroblinski with refurbishing the two fireboats that the City of East Providence had given to FPRL, as he is the owner of two boats himself. Joe volunteered to take a U.S. Coast Guard course to obtain his captain’s license so that we would be able to take people out to the lighthouse in the near future.

Joseph Estrella (red shirt) helps with the installation of new ramp on the dock at the lighthouse (Photo by David Kelleher)

Joe took on a number of jobs for us including: organizing and cooking at our annual picnics, helping out on Pomham Santa events and attending Family Fun Nights. Joe also managed a successful fundraising raffle for FPRL last year. Taking initiative during the raffle, Joe went out to speak with local businesses and got local establishments to donate gift certificates, had the tickets made, and ended up selling the most tickets in our chapter.

In one of our recent projects at Pomham Rocks Lighthouse, Joe made contact with A & O Marine of Warwick, RI, to install a new floating dock and ramps out at the lighthouse. During this project, he made many trips to state agencies to obtain all the necessary permits and made himself available at the lighthouse to supervise the installation of the new equipment at the island.

In the past year, Joe carried out the research to find a company capable of to installing a solar system on the oil house so that FPRL could bring some electricity out on the island. Once again he saw to it that we had the necessary permits and he made the arrangements with the Ferris Company who was contracted for the project, had our crew and boats ready to get out to the island and helped with the installation itself.

Joseph Estrella (lower left) helps with the installation of solar panels on the roof of the oil house in an effort to bring electricty to Pomham Rocks Lighthouse in March 2012 (Photo by David Kelleher)

Needless to say, Joe has been a very helpful addition to our organization and has now been elected as our second vice chairman for the 2012 season.”

Did you know?

The American Lighthouse Foundation’s “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award” was named after Len Hadley, one of the original volunteers of the organization in 1994. Len possessed a wonderful personality and ability to connect with others, and was a stellar volunteer for a number of ALF projects throughout the years.

The vital pillar supporting the American Lighthouse Foundation’s success in preservation, education and public access programs over the past eighteen years has undeniably been the dedication of ALF volunteers such as Len Hadley.

When Len sadly passed away in October 2000, the ALF board of directors honored his uncommon dedication to volunteerism by naming an award after him that would recognize other outstanding ALF volunteers for the same passion, selflessness and commitment to lighthouse preservation for which Len stood for.

Joseph Estrella (far left) has also volunteered his time to help the Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse with their annual Earth Day clean-up along the shores of Lighthouse Cove (Photo by Don Doucette)

(L to R) Bob Orcutt is presented with a 2012 ALF "Len Hadley Volunteerism Award" by Brad Coupe, chairman, Friends of Wood Island Lighthouse and Eric Davis, ALF President (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the 2012 ALF “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award,” which was presented to twelve outstanding volunteers throughout the organization.

The Friends of Wood Island Lighthouse (FOWIL) recognized Bob Orcutt this year with the honor for his above and beyond contributions to ALF/FOWIL’s mission.

Thanks to dedicated FOWIL volunteers like Bob Orcutt, the public is able to visit Wood Island and tour the light station (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

The following text was read to attendees at the lighthouse gala as Bob Orcutt was presented with his 2012 “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award”…

“Bob Orcutt, FOWIL’s 2012 Volunteer of the Year, continues a family tradition of service to Wood Island Lighthouse that dates back 116 years. Bob is the great grandson of Thomas Henry Orcutt, the legendary keeper at Wood Island Lighthouse from 1886 to 1905. Bob was present at the founding of the chapter back in 2003 and has given his personal time and financial support to FOWIL and its work continuously ever since. 

He is one of three captains who transport visitors on tours to the island in our boat, the Light Runner, every week throughout the summer. A native of Biddeford Pool, Bob was a lobsterman and has been a recreational sailor in the area all his life. He knows the waters surrounding the island well and navigates them with an easy-going confidence. In the family tradition, he often captains the boat while his sister Carol, another staunch FOWIL volunteer, accompanies the visitors as their host on the island. 

Bob was also one of the early “Woodchucks”, our weekly grounds maintenance crew that goes out to the island to cut the grass and keep the place looking sharp. And, he is always mindful of the safety of his trips and the welfare of his passengers. So, at Bob’s urging and with his assistance last summer, we developed a coordinated emergency response system taking medical and law enforcement authorities to the island to develop and refine the plan.

Bob Orcutt's ability to captain the "Light Runner" during public tours is an invaluable asset for FOWIL's mission at Wood Island (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

For Bob’s long and distinguished service to FOWIL, we are pleased to recognize his efforts and the contribution he has made to FOWIL’s success.”

Did you know?

The American Lighthouse Foundation’s “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award” was named after Len Hadley, one of the original volunteers of the organization in 1994. Len possessed a wonderful personality and ability to connect with others, and was a stellar volunteer for a number of ALF projects throughout the years.

The vital pillar supporting the American Lighthouse Foundation’s success in preservation, education and public access programs over the past eighteen years has undeniably been the dedication of ALF volunteers such as Len Hadley.

When Len sadly passed away in October 2000, the ALF board of directors honored his uncommon dedication to volunteerism by naming an award after him that would recognize other outstanding ALF volunteers for the same passion, selflessness and commitment to lighthouse preservation for which Len stood for.

Congratulations to Bob Orcutt (center aboard "Light Runner") for being recognized as FOWIL's 2012 "Len Hadley Volunteerism Award" recipient! (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

(L to R) ALF President Eric Davis and Friends of Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouses' Chairman Ross Tracy present E.J. Warren with a 2012 ALF "Len Hadley Volunteerism Award" (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the 2012 ALF “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award,” which was presented to twelve outstanding volunteers throughout the organization.

The Friends of Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse (FPHL) recognized E.J. Warren with this honor for her above and beyond contributions to ALF/FPHL’s mission this past year.

FPHL volunteer E.J. Warren made a real difference at Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse open houses in 2011 (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

The following text was read to attendees at the lighthouse gala as E.J. Warren was presented with her 2012 “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award”…

“For almost the entire 2011 open house season at Portsmouth Harbor Light, E.J. was the only volunteer who was there every single week. She stopped coming at the end of the season only because her new job prevented it. Until then, she was the first person at the lighthouse every Sunday. E.J. helped set up the merchandise tables and literature, and she staffed the merchandise table most of the time.

We had some of our biggest days sales-wise in the history of the organization with E.J. at the sales table. It’s been said that E.J. could sell ice to an Eskimo. E.J.’s friendly banter with visitors created a favorable first impression for many visitors, and that was the impression they took away with them.”

Did you know?

The American Lighthouse Foundation’s “Len Hadley Volunteerism Award” was named after Len Hadley, one of the original volunteers of the organization in 1994. Len possessed a wonderful personality and ability to connect with others, and was a stellar volunteer for a number of ALF projects throughout the years.

The vital pillar supporting the American Lighthouse Foundation’s success in preservation, education and public access programs over the past eighteen years has undeniably been the dedication of ALF volunteers such as Len Hadley.

When Len sadly passed away in October 2000, the ALF board of directors honored his uncommon dedication to volunteerism by naming an award after him that would recognize other outstanding ALF volunteers for the same passion, selflessness and commitment to lighthouse preservation for which Len stood for.

Volunteers like FPHL's E.J. Warren are "shining lights" for lighthouse preservation (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

The Highland Museum and Lighthouse, Inc. is presented with a 2012 ALF "Keeper of the Light Award"...(L to R) HML President Dan Sanders, HML Manager Francene Webster and ALF President Eric Davis (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the ALF “Keeper of the Light Award,” with the Highland Museum & Lighthouse, Inc. being honored as one of the awardees for their dedicated efforts to save a Cape Cod legend – Highland Lighthouse, from being lost to erosion.

The following text was read to the Lighthouse Gala attendees in honor of the Highland Museum & Lighthouse, Inc.’s above and beyond commitment to lighthouse preservation excellence…

“When Highland Light, Cape Cod’s first lighthouse, was built on the Highlands of North Truro in 1797, it was more than 500 feet from the edge of the bluff on which it stands. By 1885 the distance had shrunk to 336 feet. The bluff continued to erode until, by the early 1990s, the lighthouse stood about 112 feet from the edge.

In 1988 the Army Corps of Engineers determined that the most cost-effective way to save the lighthouse would be to move it. Recognizing the desperateness of the situation, a group within the Truro Historical Society began working toward an eventual move.

Cape Cod's legendary Highland Lighthouse (Photo by Jeremy D'Entremont)

Volunteers of the Truro Historical Society and the Save the Light Committee, led by Gordon Russell, Bob Firminger, and others, sold t-shirts and souvenirs from a trailer near the lighthouse. Local residents and tourists made donations and bought items, and the society raised over $180,000.

In 1996 the funds raised by the historical society were combined with $1 million in federal funds and $500,000 in state funds to pay for the move of the 404-ton lighthouse to a site 450 feet back from its former location. The town of Truro donated land for the relocation. The operation got under way in June 1996, under the direction of International Chimney Corporation of Buffalo, with the help of Expert House Moving of Maryland. Thousands of sightseers gathered to catch a glimpse of the rare event.

The move took 18 days and was accomplished without a hitch. The relocated lighthouse stands close to the seventh fairway of the Highland Golf Links, which has prompted some to declare it the world’s first life-sized miniature golf course. On Sunday, November 3, 1996, Highland Light was relighted in its new location.

In the summer of 1998 the lighthouse was opened for visitors, with volunteers providing tours. The stated mission of Highland Museum and Lighthouse, Inc., is “to maintain the Cape Cod Highland Lighthouse and the Highland House Museum, to insure their accessibility to the public, and to help the public understand their historical significance.”

For their leading role in the saving of historic Highland Light in the 1990s, and for their ongoing care and interpretation of one of our most beloved lighthouses, we present the American Lighthouse Foundation’s Keeper of the Light Award to Highland Museum and Lighthouse, Inc.”

The Nauset Light Preservation Society is presented with a 2012 ALF "Keeper of the Light Award"...(L to R) ALF President Eric Davis, NLPS Secretary Shirley Sabin, NLPS President David Gray, NLPS Treasurer Carl Ericson, NLPS Board member Bud Griffin and ALF Executive Director Bob Trapani, Jr. (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the ALF “Keeper of the Light Award,” with the Nauset Light Preservation Society being honored for their dedicated efforts to save Nauset Lighthouse from being lost to erosion, and subsequently maintaining the beacon in grand fashion thereafter.

Nauset Lighthouse in Eastham, MA (Photo by Jeremy D'Entremont)

The following text was read to the Lighthouse Gala attendees in honor of the Nauset Light Preservation Society’s above and beyond commitment to lighthouse preservation excellence…

“Throughout their history, erosion has been an adversary for Cape Cod’s lighthouses. The Nauset light station in Eastham has been no exception. In just three years, from 1991 to 1994, 30 feet of the bluff disappeared just east of the lighthouse.

When the Coast Guard proposed the decommissioning of Nauset Light in 1993, hundreds of letters poured into the Boston Coast Guard headquarters requesting that the lighthouse be moved inland and saved. As a result, the Nauset Light Preservation Society was formed in 1993, spearheaded by several local residents — Bill Burt, Hawkins Conrad, Pam Nobili, and Harold Jennings, among many others.

In January 1994 the Coast Guard announced that the light would remain active, and that they would support the efforts of the NLPS.

Nauset Light stands tall and proud today thanks to the dedicated efforts of the NLPS (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

The Nauset Light Preservation Society raised over $80,000 from private donations and secured federal grants totaling over $200,000 to fund the relocation and restoration of the lighthouse. After much debate and consideration, a new site was chosen for the tower in April 1996. By that time it stood only 43 feet from the edge of the bluff. A contract with International Chimney Corporation was signed in September 1996.

The historic move of Nauset Light was completed on Saturday, November 16, 1996. As crowds of the curious strained to get a view of the historic event from designated viewing areas, the truck hauled the lighthouse across the road to its new home, 336 feet from the old site.

The lighthouse was relighted at a gala event attended by about 2,000 supporters. At its new location, the Nauset Light Preservation Society continues to keep the lighthouse lit as a private aid to navigation.

Today, the Nauset Light Preservation Society has a partnership agreement with the National Park Service to operate, maintain, and interpret the Nauset Lighthouse site. The organization is responsible for paying all renovation, utility, and maintenance costs, and it also pays for all exhibits and educational materials developed as part of the effort to interpret the lighthouse to the public.
The Nauset Light Preservation Society provides public tours of Nauset Lighthouse and the oil house on Sundays from May through late October and also on Wednesdays during July and August. Volunteers provide the historic background of the light station and conduct tours to the top of the tower.

In recognition of the organization’s indispensable role in the rescuing of Nauset Light from the brink of extinction and its continuing efforts as the steward of this historic landmark, we present the American Lighthouse Foundation’s Keeper of the Light Award to the Nauset Light Preservation Society.”

(L to R) Ross Tracy, Brad Coupe, Caren Clark, Eric Davis, Jim Leslie and Bob Trapani, Jr. during the presentation of the 2012 ALF President's Award to the J.B. Leslie Company of South Berwick, Maine (Photo by Ann-Marie Trapani)

The American Lighthouse Foundation held its annual lighthouse gala at the Four Points by Sheraton in Eastham, MA, on April 28, 2012.

The organization’s signature event featured some wonderful lighthouse camaraderie, fundraising, a great meal and some Cape Cod lighthouses open for climbing (Nauset, The Three Sisters and Highland), but the highlight of the evening event was the presentation of awards to well-deserving individuals and groups for their amazing dedication to lighthouse preservation and education.

One of the awards presented was the ALF “President’s Award,” which went to the J.B. Leslie Company of South Berwick, Maine, for their many contributions to the restoration of eight (8) lighthouses under the care of the American Lighthouse Foundation.

A "before and after" view of the 2007 exterior restoration of Pemaquid Point Light, which earned ALF and the J.B. Leslie Company a 2009 Maine Preservation "Honor Award" for preservation excellence (Photos by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

The following text was read to the Lighthouse Gala attendees in honor of the J.B. Leslie Company’s above and beyond commitment to lighthouse preservation excellence…

“The J.B. Leslie Company has been involved in masonry design, construction and general contracting for over twenty-five years, with a specialty in the field of historic restoration. The firm has also developed a proven track record with expertly tackling difficult projects, including those on wave-swept islands along the seacoast of Maine and New Hampshire.

Over the past five years, the J.B. Leslie Company has worked very close with ALF and its chapters, as well as its professional partners, including the Maine Historic Preservation Commission and the United States Coast Guard, on a number of lighthouse projects. 

J.B. Leslie Company’s first project with the American Lighthouse Foundation occurred in 2007, when the firm restored the exterior of the 1835 Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. This high profile project had the support of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Lowes, Maine Historic Preservation Commission and the United States Coast Guard, and was later recognized by Maine Preservation with a 2009 Honor Award for restoration excellence.

Since that time, from masonry to wood restoration projects, the J.B. Leslie Company has made huge contributions to the American Lighthouse Foundation’s preservation mission by applying their experienced and professional skills to a total of eight (8) ALF lights.

2007 – Restored the exterior of Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
2008 – Restored the masonry base of Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse
2010 – Restored the interior of Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
2010 – Repainted the exterior of Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse
2010 – Restored the interior and exterior of Owls Head Lighthouse
2010 – Pointed the granite pier and exterior ironwork at Rockland Breakwater Light
2010 – Carried out a weatherization project on the lantern of Whaleback Lighthouse
2011 – Repainted the exterior of Perkins Island Lighthouse
2011 – Repaired the masonry expansion belt at Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
2011 – Carried out a weatherization project on the lantern of Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse
2011 – Restored the exterior of the keeper’s house at Wood Island Lighthouse

The crews of J.B. Leslie Company spent the months of August through November 2011 restoring the exterior of the keeper's house at Wood Island Light Station (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)

During this past year, the J.B. Leslie Company’s work at Wood Island Light Station, a $200,000-plus project to restore the exterior of the keeper’s house, was the American Lighthouse Foundation’s crowning restoration achievement of 2011 thanks to the teamwork between ALF and its chapter, Friends of Wood Island Lighthouse.

The J.B. Leslie Company not only restored the roof, chimney’s, wood clapboard siding and the masonry foundation of the keeper’s house, they also restored the vintage 1906 front porch to the dwelling – an effort that also benefited from the expertise of  Theriault/Landmann Associates, an architectural firm from Portland, Maine.

In addition, the J.B. Leslie Company repaired the exterior brickwork of New Hampshire’s endangered (at the time) White Island Lighthouse in 2005 and restored both the interior and exterior of Monhegan Lighthouse in 2009.

For their excellence in historic preservation and their ongoing commitment to helping the American Lighthouse Foundation’s mission, the organization is proud to present the J.B. Leslie Company with the 2012 ALF President’s Award.”

A "before and after" view of the restoration of the keeper's house at Wood Island Light Station (Photos by Bob Trapani, Jr.)