Dear Editor:

In this week of Thanksgiving, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the generosity this community has shown to the Burnt Island Light Station. I am extremely thankful for the many unsung heroes who donated their time, venues, services, and money towards maintaining and preserving the grounds, gardens, and buildings of the historic site.

The relighting celebration on Nov. 9 was the perfect night in every sense of the word! The ideal weather allowed the dedicated “Keepers of the Burnt Island Light” to host an outstanding, outdoor gathering at Spruce Point Inn. A special thanks goes out to them, the Inn, and to Southport and Boothbay Region Elementary schoolchildren who adorned the deck’s railings and a Christmas tree with beautiful artworks.

The community’s outpouring of pride and support for the lighthouse’s monumental moment came after sunset when a capacity crowd settled in to provide the all-important countdown. With a hand on the switch, three of the former keepers joyfully relit the “people’s light” on its 200th anniversary night. Then in celebration, the skies above the tower lit up with fireworks of all shapes and colors, concluding with a heart that symbolized the region’s love for this beacon.

My heartfelt thanks go out to all the caring people who helped save and celebrate a very special place. The past 23 years have been an incredible journey and I am sincerely grateful to the residents of the peninsula who joined me along the way. Now, let’s keep that light burning for future generations!

In Thanksgiving,

Elaine Jones

Hampden