How to Be a Lighthouse Keeper

Lighthouses are fascinating

Many people today are fascinated with lighthouses and their history and some would like to know how they can be lighthouse keepers, even if only for a little while. There are opportunities to be found, depending on what you're looking for. If you just want to spend a weekend, there are Bed & Breakfasts and Hostels that offer varying rates. But if you're looking for a more indepth experience, here's how to do it.

Things You'll Need

• Look into Keeper for a fee programs
• Check into Keeper Host Programs
• Find Full time keeper/caretaker programs
• Own your own lighthouse

Instructions

1. 

   Look into The Keeper For a Fee Program: Some lighthouses or local lighthouse societies have programs where you can stay for days or weeks. This involves paying a fee, which is sometimes no more than being a member of the local lighthouse organization. This will allow you to stay in the keeper's house, and perform such duties as giving tours, working in a gift shop, historical interpretation, landscaping and light maintenance. There may be a waiting list, if so, get your name on it as soon as possible.

2. 

   Check into The Keeper Host Program: This is a volunteer position, with no fee. Ask organizations located in county, state or national parks if they offer this program. The length of stay varies from several weeks to several months, your choice. Duties usually include acting as an interpretive host, giving tours, operating a gift shop or bookstore, and maintenance work. If you're in luck, you may be able to stay in a fully equipped house. Some only offer an RV space and hookups, depending on the lighthouse you've chosen.

3. 

   Find Full Time Keeper/Caretaker Programs: These are few and far between, but they do exist. Competition for these positions are keen, and quickly filled. Most of these include housing, but may require light duties and the payment of rent. Occasionally, an opportunity will be present to manage a lighthouse which has been converted to a Bed & Breakfast. The best way to keep an eye on these openings is to check with various lighthouse websites, which I will list below.

4. 

   Own Your Own Lighthouse. Of course, the ultimate dream is to own and occupy your own lighthouse. Under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 2000, the Coast Guard can declare a lighthouse as excess property. At this point, the General Services Administration (GSA) may offer it to state or nonprofit organizations. If there are no results from this, the property may be auctioned to the highest bidder. Lighthouses currently offered may be found at the GSA site (Choose "other" under "property type"). Each sale may have special conditions relating to the use and/or preservation of the lighthouse. Lighthouse News maintains an updated page on lighthouses for sale. Also check the other sites listed below.