Way of Life
The way of life for a lighthouse keeper was at all times
demanding, rigorous, and often lonely. In addition to the
many responsibilities of maintaining the light, there were
several other duties that needed the keeper's attention. One
of the most time-consuming activities for a keeper was that
of obtaining and maintaining resources necessary for the maintenance
of the light and the survival of those who lived there.
Lighthouse Resources
Some common supplies needed to maintain the light and other
related devices included:
- Oil and wicks for the lantern
- Paint for the tower and
adjacent buildings
- Tools for repairs
- Cleaning supplies for reflectors,
lenses, windows, etc.
- Water for steam-powers
fog signals
- Coal
Personal Resources
In addition to the many supplies needed
for the operation of the light itself, there were obviously
many other resources necessary for survival that had to be
acquired and maintained, such as:
- Food
- Clothing
- Medicine
- Feed for livestock
- Tools and materials for carpentry
Acquiring and maintaining all the necessary supplies for
a lighthouse was a significant task in and of itself. Since
most lighthouses are located in remote locations with access
being inhibited by rough, unsettled territory, supplies could
be difficult to obtain. Lighthouse keepers and their families
often had to brave rough seas and treacherous terrain in order
to get the things they needed to do their jobs, not to mention
survive. Many were also dependent upon others to deliver supplies
to them, often by boat, and dangerous storms that lasted over
extended periods of time could postpone much needed deliveries,
forcing those at the lighthouses to go without.
© 2002 Lights of the Coast |
