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National Lighthouse Day 2023: Date, History, How to Participate

Historically, coal or even flames were used as the 'lamp' or source of light in lighthouses. In 1875, oil-burning lanterns were replaced by electric lamps in lighthouses.

Lighthouses are wondrous — both aesthetically pleasing and incredibly practical. On National Lighthouse Day, August 7, we commemorate how these picturesque, historic structures have aided travellers for centuries. In 1789, the United States Congress passed a law protecting all federally supported lighthouses.

If you ever visit a lighthouse, you will realise the serenity and stability they signify to land-based observers. Although lighthouse technology has progressed over time, lighthouses were once extensively utilised to mark hazardous reefs, shorelines, and harbours. Today, we envision that a lighthouse’s beacon of light offered hope to those searching for land amidst stormy seas and dark nights.

The background of National Lighthouse Day

Historically, coal or even flames were used as the “lamp” or source of light in lighthouses. In 1875, oil-burning lanterns were replaced by electric lamps in lighthouses. Lighthouses, situated on coasts and cliffs, are susceptible to cyclones, high winds, and other extreme conditions. Nevertheless, many remain viable and robust to this day. Boston Lighthouse on Little Brewster Island in Boston Harbour, Massachusetts, constructed in 1716, is the earliest operational lighthouse in the United States. Lighthouses are a popular photographic subject due to their cylindrical shape and the beauty of the neighbouring coastline or bay. It should come as no surprise that the sight of a lighthouse standing tall on the ocean’s margin provides a sense of tranquilly.

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HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL LIGHTHOUSE DAY IN 2021

Visit your community’s lighthouse

National Lighthouse Day encourages lighthouses to be accessible to the public whenever feasible. If you are within driving distance of a coast, you should visit one of these gorgeous structures today.

Help maintain a luminary

The American Lighthouse Organisation is committed to the preservation and protection of these historical structures. Consider making a modest contribution to the lighthouse’s operating organisation in order to ensure continued public access.

Create a lighthouse using paint

Lighthouses are lovely and make for excellent artwork. Give a painting or photograph of a lighthouse to a relative who has a collection of lighthouse postcards.