How to Become a Lighthouse Caretaker
Historically, lighthouses aided marine vessels by providing navigational assistance, preventing vessels from running aground, and warning of other at-sea dangers. Lighthouse caretakers maintained the lighthouse structure, ensured the visibility of beacons, and sounded warnings. In the United States, most lighthouses no longer function as primary navigational aids to mariners. Remaining lighthouse structures often function as tourist destinations. During World War II the U.S. Coast Guard assumed responsibility for coastal security and developed more technologically advanced and economical beacons for navigational assistance. Despite their obsolescence, lighthouses remain iconic, often supported by preservation groups. Many opportunities exist for individuals to perform lighthouse keeper duties on a volunteer basis.
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Instructions
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Identify a lighthouse open to the public for visits and volunteer opportunities. The U.S. National Park System and the United States Lighthouse Society maintain detailed directories of lighthouses open to the public.
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Contact the organization that operates the lighthouse at which you wish to become a volunteer keeper. Inquire about the availability of lighthouse keeper opportunities. Keep in mind that some lighthouses adhere to seasonal schedules due to factors such as weather. You may find the site booked for volunteer caretaker visits many months in advance. You can usually book your volunteer caretaker opportunity once you find an open date and pay any required registration fees.
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Complete a volunteer application to function as a lighthouse keeper. Organizations that allow volunteer lighthouse keepers often have specific maintenance and preservation projects to complete. Detail any special skills you possess; lighthouse preservation groups welcome volunteers of various skill levels. Some volunteer keepers may perform general maintenance and upkeep chores around the property. Volunteers with more advanced skills such as carpentry or other trades may contribute to more specialized projects.
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Make the payments for your stay as lighthouse caretaker. Your payments cover your lodging, much like a hotel stay, and can vary according to season and site. If the managing organization functions as a non-profit organization and you contribute significantly to a special project, the expenses associated with your work may be tax-deductible.
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Prepare for your stay. Gain an understanding of your responsibilities from the host organization. Duties can range from daily chores to more complex maintenance and repair, and can include tracking weather, hosting tours around the facility, and tending to the flag. Additionally, you may need to plan on-site meals and stock up on food and supplies, as duties or access to stores can limit your ability to venture far from the lighthouse.
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Tips & Warnings
Volunteer lighthouse keepers must be willing to perform the functions necessary to operate the lighthouse during their stay.
Some lighthouse preservation groups require membership in order to volunteer as a lighthouse caretaker.
Volunteer lighthouse caretaker opportunities are intended to be enjoyable and enriching for participants.
References
Resources
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