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| FRIENDS OF THE SWAN'S ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE NEWSLETTER AND LIGHTHOUSE RESTORATION UPDATES 2. May 2006 3. July 2007 4. April 2008 HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN - SPRING 2007 |
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HISTORY The lighthouse, built in 1872 at Hockamock Head, marks the entrance to Burnt Coat Harbor, one of the best protected harbors on the Maine coast. Originally, two towers were erected to serve as range lights. In 1884, after numerous complaints that the range lights were confusing, the front range light was discontinued. |
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| The present brick lighthouse was originally connected by a covered walkway to the wood frame keeper's house. The oil house, still standing, was added in 1895. The bell tower that was added in 1911 also remains. A fog horn eventually replaced the bell. It was operated manually until 1974 when the light was automated. Hockamock Head Light, also known as Burnt Coat Harbor Light, remains an active aid to navigation. |
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| The lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The buildings and the 20 acre site belong to the town of Swan's Island. The lighthouse grounds are open to visitors year-round. The keeper's house needs to be restored, and, for the safety and enjoyment of the public, the grounds need to be maintained. Hockamock Head is exposed to the weather, and saving this historic site will not be easy. In 2000, the selectmen of Swan's Island created the Lighthouse Committee, which was chaired by the late Roberta Joyce. Presently, the lighthouse committee is raising money to preserve and restore the keeper's house as Phase I of a comprehensive project. When the exterior of the building is secure, we will proceed to Phase II, repairing the interior for use or uses to be determined by the town. Phase III will focus on the grounds. |
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| The goal is to preserve this landmark and its site for public use forever. In 2002, the town of Swan's Island received a grant from the Virginia Wellington Cabot Foundation for an architectural assessment of the keeper's house. Using this money, a thorough study of the building for restoration purposes was obtained by the Bar Harbor architect Roc Caviano. We need to raise approximately $100,000 to maintain and restore the exterior of the keeper's house. |
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Swan's Island Lighthouse Committee Town of Swan's Island Swan's Island, ME 04685 Please make check out to "Town of Swan's Island" and note that it is intended for the Lighthouse restoration. |
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