Dear Editor:

My family first came to Boothbay Harbor and Squirrel Island in the summer of 1922.

Our father used to tell us the story of how the family traveled from New York by train to Bath, and to Squirrel Island by steam ferry. It was always exciting when the Cuckolds Lighthouse would come into view because it meant, "We're almost there!" A wave to the lighthouse keepers' children as the ferry rounded to the east for Squirrel Island was affirmation.

I recall returning to Squirrel Island as a college student to discover that Cuckolds Lighthouse had been severely violated. I learned, that as a part of a national decommissioning effort of lighthouses, the Coast Guard had razed and pushed into the ocean, most of the Cuckolds Lighthouse structure. All that remained was the masonry section with the light and signal, and an ugly scar. A beautiful beacon of safety, built in 1892, had become a wounded lighthouse.

Ten years ago, a local volunteer effort began to restore the original glory of the Cuckolds. I have been observing the rescue process of the Cuckolds with great interest. As a builder and inn owner, I have participated as a volunteer in lending my expertise on aspects of construction and hospitality. I was pleased to learn that the leaders of this all-volunteer effort had chosen to create a model that would allow the Cuckolds to be financially self sustaining once completed.

The results of this tireless effort have been spectacular. The original structures have been restored with meticulous execution of details.

In light of the success of this long undertaking, I am saddened by the incivility of a few individuals who seem determined on belittling this great project. These few naysayers have resorted to ugly and unseemly individual attacks. Where does this hostility come from? It makes no sense and has no foundation in reality.

Let us remember, that in Maine, folks try to welcome visitors and encourage to return. "Welcome to Maine, the way life should be, open for business."

God bless the Cuckolds and all the volunteers who have accomplished a wonderful goal for the benefit of the many!

Peter Starbuck
Kent, Conn.