Lighthouse Keeper’s Duties

By Susan G Mathis

Nestled in the heart of the Thousand Islands, the Rock Island Lighthouse stands proudly as a beacon of history and resilience. But beyond its picturesque exterior and stunning views, the lighthouse tells a story of those who dedicated their lives to keeping its light shining: the lighthouse keepers. Imagine living in a serene, remote setting surrounded by the beauty of the St. Lawrence River, while also shouldering the responsibility of guiding boats safely through treacherous waters.

Traditionally, lighthouse keepers were responsible for maintaining the lighthouse, ensuring the light was operational, and assisting with navigation. While modern technology has automated many of these functions, the role of a lighthouse keeper was once a vital and respected profession.

The lightkeeper had many tasks that included:

• Maintaining the Light: This involved regularly checking and cleaning the lens and ensuring the light source was functional.

• Weather Monitoring: Keepers monitored weather conditions, which were crucial for safe navigation on the river. They often kept logs of weather patterns and visibility.

• Daily Upkeep: Routine maintenance of the lighthouse and its surrounding areas was essential. This included painting, cleaning, and repairing structures to withstand the elements.

• Communication: Lighthouse keepers often communicated with passing ships, offering guidance and information about local hazards.

• Visitor Engagement: In more recent years, keepers have also played a role in welcoming visitors, sharing stories of the lighthouse’s history and significance.

Being a lighthouse keeper is not without its challenges. The isolation can be daunting, especially during harsh winters when access to the island may be limited. Keepers must be self-sufficient, ready to tackle any issues that arise without immediate help. But the rewards far outweigh the challenges. The beauty of nature surrounding Rock Island Lighthouse is unparalleled. The tranquility and connection to history create a profound sense of purpose. Keepers often forge a deep bond with the land and water, embracing the rhythms of nature in a way few people experience.

Life as a lighthouse keeper at Rock Island Lighthouse is a unique blend of solitude, responsibility, and connection to nature. It is a life dedicated to service, preserving a vital part of maritime history while providing safety to those navigating the waters. While modern advancements have transformed the role of lighthouse keepers, the spirit of their commitment to safeguarding lives and guiding vessels remains a cherished legacy. Whether through the lens of a light or the warmth of a welcoming smile, the essence of a lighthouse keeper continues to shine bright in the Thousand Islands.

Have you toured a lighthouse? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on February 19th for my next post.

ABOUT EMMA’S ENGAGEMENT

Book 3 of the Love in a Lighthouse series:

Emma Row yearns to build a loving family. But becoming the Rock Island Lightkeeper's wife brings treacherous waters of isolation and the bitter rejection of her new stepdaughter, Ada. Michael Diepolder, the widowed lightkeeper, had hoped marriage would simplify life but realizes that the path to happiness is far more turbulent than he ever anticipated. Emma and Michael must confront the tempestuous waves of doubt, jealousy, and isolation that threaten to extinguish the light of their love. Can they weather the storm and find the strength to keep their family together, or will the darkness consume them all?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has fourteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.