The National Lighthouse Museum in Staten Island has announced their yearly Lighthouse Week is set to begin on August 2nd, with the 9th Annual Light Keepers’ Gala.
Before the United States was a nation, individual colonies and municipalities constructed lighthouses on their shores to guide mariners into harbors. But since operation of these lighthouses was not governed by a centralized body, the lights lacked uniformity in their operation, impacting the safety of the mariners they were trying to protect.
When George Washington became president of the new United States, one of the first issues he addressed was the management of lighthouses and central control of navigational aids. He recommended “An Act for the Establishment and support of Lighthouse, Beacons, Buoys, and Public Piers,” to provide and regulate navigation. When the Lighthouse Act became law in August 7, 1789, significant improvements in the operation of lighthouses were immediately implemented and operational guidelines were established.
The Light Keepers’ Gala takes place on Friday, August 2nd, and includes a harbor cruise, open bar, hors-d’oeuvres, dinner, and dancing in the moonlight. Leaving from Pier One adjacent to the National Lighthouse Museum.
On Saturday, August 3rd there will be presentations and panel discussion at the National Lighthouse Museum. Free museum admission, 3 to 5 pm.
Sunday, August 4th is the Lighthouse Weekend Celebratory Lighthouse Ambrose Channel Boat Tour, which leaves at 11 am from Pier 1 adjacent to the Museum.
The Museum is located at 200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point, (adjacent to the free Staten Island Ferry), St. George, Staten island.
More information is available online, or by contacting the museum at info@lighthousemuseum.org or (718) 390-0040.
Photo of National Lighthouse Museum provided.
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