The state of Maine’s fifth annual Open Lighthouse Day will take place on Saturday, Sept. 14 with lighthouses open throughout the state and free entry available to visitors on this one day.
The popular event is coordinated by the U.S. Coast Guard in partnership with the Maine Office of Tourism and the American Lighthouse Foundation.
Known as the saviors of the seacoast, 22 light stations along the Maine coast plan to participate in this year’s annual event. Participating Lincoln County lighthouses include Monhegan Lighthouse on Monhegan Island, Burnt Island Lighthouse, in Boothbay Harbor and Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol.
Open Lighthouse Day in Maine is the largest effort of its kind in the country, and is expected to draw hundreds of visitors. All lighthouses will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Special packages, promotions and celebratory activities are also available in partnership with hotels and other attractions.
There’s a good reason why Maine is referred to as “The Lighthouse State.” There are more lighthouses in Maine than in any other state but Michigan and New York, and there are more coastal lighthouses in Maine than anywhere else in the nation.
Beginning in 1794, lighthouses were built to help navigate mariners through dangerous waters and Maine’s many little islands, ledges and shoals. By the turn of the 20th century, at least 70 lighthouses guarded Maine’s seacoast, deepest rivers and even one lake. Today, 65 of these lighthouses still stand.
Over the decades, Maine’s iconic lighthouses have become more than directional aids. They’ve developed a distinctive look with architectural beauty and proportion that also speak to Yankee ingenuity – both quirky and scientific (like the keepers who have manned them).
Many of Maine’s lighthouses can be seen by boat, some only with ground visitation, and some are celebrated by museums or as displays within buildings.
On Open Lighthouse Day, both Mainers and visitors planning a weekend getaway or longer getaway can check out various itineraries and participating lighthouses by consulting Maine’s complimentary Travel Planner, and by going online to www.visitmaine.com/.
(Submitted article)
