The Keepers of Burnt Island Light are thrilled to announce that their “Keep the Light Burning” campaign has met its goal by raising over $350,000. Therefore, Maine’s oldest “original” tower will return to its glory in time to celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2021. The restoration project also includes the exterior of the keeper’s dwelling and its adjacent work-shed.

Our nonprofit organization, formed in 2008 to assist the Department of Marine Resources in maintaining their historic site, is grateful to so many people from near and afar. This community really stepped up to the plate and answered our call to save Boothbay Harbor’s guiding light with donations both large and small.

There are so many of you to thank for your contributions – thanks for: hosting/donating food & door prizes/attending fundraising events; brewing/consuming 10 Lewis Ale; donating a day’s lobstering pay; enabling/hosting an art auction; contributing to our annual appeals; leaving a few dollars in the island’s donation box and more. We were touched by support from the Eliot Elementary School children and moved by the little girl from Squirrel Island who had her grandmother send money instead of buying her a Christmas present. All of you, as well as a very generous, anonymous donor, made this restoration possible. Burnt Island Light will shine on into the future because of your generosity.

Due to construction, Keepers of Burnt Island Light will not be conducting educational tours this summer. The island will remain open to recreational boaters from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., however, the dock will be reserved Monday through Friday for the contractors’ boats. There is a drop off/pick up zone (yellow rail on end of dock), moorings, and beach access for paddlers. The work zone has been roped off for your safety, so please do not enter this area.

J.B. Leslie Co. of South Berwick will tackle the tower and dwelling’s foundation. As Maine’s premier lighthouse specialist, Jim Leslie remarked that this one is a “gem” and he is happy to add it to his restoration list as #22. Marden Builders of Boothbay Harbor will restore the dwelling and shed’s exterior. They will install 27 historically-correct windows (circa 1950) thanks to the generosity of Marvin Windows and Hammond Lumber Co.

We hope that you will stop by on weekends to check on progress or visit our website: www.keepersofburntislandlight.com

We are looking for fun ways to celebrate Burnt Island’s Bicentennial next year and we welcome your suggestions. Please send them to Elaine Jones (elaine.jones@maine.gov).