Event Description

Discover the fascinating stories of women who kept America's lighthouses burning bright. Hundreds of women have served as lighthouse keepers since 1776, including Hannah Thomas, who took over Gurnet Lighthouse when her husband left to fight in the American Revolution.

Before the U.S. Coast Guard took over in 1939, lighthouse keepers and their families lived on-site, where wives and daughters often stepped in as official or assistant keepers. This was one of the first national paid positions available to women, second only to clerks.

Led by historian Mary Rasa, this program highlights five remarkable women keepers and their contributions to maritime history.