A Day in the Life of a Lighthouse Keeper at Beavertail Lighthouse

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a lighthouse keeper? For this week’s post, we’re stepping back in time to when men and women took on solitary lives to become lighthouse keepers at places like Beavertail Lighthouse in Rhode Island, which is situated atop a rocky island and has been guiding ships safely since 1749.

A Lightkeepers Job is Never Done

About Beavertail Lighthouse

Beavertail Lighthouse is the third oldest lighthouse in the United States and stands at 64 feet tall. It was built to guide ships entering Narragansett Bay and its light can be seen from up to 15 nautical miles away. The lighthouse tower is made of granite and has a spiral staircase leading up to the lantern room where the beacon shines out into the night sky.

The Life of a Lighthouse Keeper

Being a lighthouse keeper required dedication, discipline, and strength. Keepers were responsible for maintaining the lighthouse, ensuring that the light was always shining bright, keeping accurate records of weather observations, and assisting ships in distress. Not everyone is cut out to take on such a solitary life, but perhaps this fictional log entry will give some insight into what it took to take on such a lonely job.

Log Entry: March 17, 1823 5:14AM

Today, I awoke to a thick fog enveloping the coastline, rendering the seas an ominous gray. The dense mist reduced visibility, a reminder of the vital importance of my duties at Beavertail Lighthouse. The climb to the lantern room at the top of the lighthouse felt bitterly cold this morning. The beam was still lit. Its beacon still pierced the grey shroud that had fallen over the coast. It is, for all who navigate these treacherous waters, a beacon of hope.

1:23 PM

The sound of waves crashing against the rocks has been the only company in the stillness of the day. I maintained the light diligently throughout the morning, ensuring that it remained a guiding star in the murky haze. In between trips to check the light, I tended to the usual daily chores of cleaning and cooking. I am looking forward to late spring when I will be able to plant again. It may not seem like much, but being self-sufficient out here brings a sense of pride and purpose. By afternoon, the fog began to lift, revealing a serene stretch of ocean under a pale sky.

4:45 PM

As the day wore on, the fog began to lift, revealing hints of blue sky and sunshine. The sea transformed from a dark grey to shimmering shades of blue. From atop the lighthouse, it is easy to see how quickly conditions can change at sea. It’s no wonder why ships rely on our guidance in these waters. I took some time to sit outside the lighthouse and enjoy the view before heading back inside for dinner.

7:15 PM

Sunset was at 6:50 PM. Strong wind gusts picked up just before sunset. Fortunately, I was in the lantern room checking the lamp when I spied a brigantine in distress. The ship was struggling against the winds on her approach to Narragansett Bay. There was enough light for me to signal the ship’s captain with flags to help him navigate into the safety of the bay. I’m sure it was a harrowing experience for all aboard.

8:30 PM

Night has fallen. It’s time for me to climb up to the lantern room again. My assistant has been ill today, so it is my responsibility to keep the beam shining brightly throughout the night. Though our days as lightkeepers can be difficult, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe at this lighthouse and its enduring purpose. No matter how many years go by, we will maintain the beacon and will continue to guide ships.

Final thoughts and looking ahead

If you’ve ever been to a lighthouse, you’ve probably seen actual lighthouse keeper logbook entries. These men and women worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of all ships that passed their way. I hope this ‘logbook entry’ has given you a sense of their daily lives and responsibilities. If you’d like to know more about lighthouses in general, visit the National Lighthouse Museum’s website. Next week, we’ll be visiting South Carolina’s Angel Oak Tree, an iconic Southern live oak.

If you played the puzzle, please leave a comment with your completion time. I’d also love to hear your thoughts on the post and the ‘logbook entry’! Thanks for being here!

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