Volume 1, Issue 4 - July, 2023

President's Letter

Dear Friends,

As the vibrant days of July unfurl across the Windy City, we find ourselves immersed in the rich history and architectural wonders that make Chicago truly

exceptional.

As Chicago comes alive for the summer, volunteers of Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse are busy working on saving the Lighthouse.

From the beginning, our goal has been to work with the City of Chicago to restore the Lighthouse. The City had the vision in 2008 to start the process of preserving the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse for future generations by working with the National Parks Service to transfer ownership from the federal government to Chicago.

Photo credit: Kurt Lentsch

This was done under federal legislation passed in 2000, known as the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 2000. This legislation was intended to preserve America’s collection of historic lighthouses by transferring them to local governments and qualified non-profit organizations. In the case of our Lighthouse, this was an appropriate first step. In 2001, the City added the Lighthouse to its list of Designated Chicago Landmarks.

The City of Chicago took the important first step to secure this 130-year-old iconic building and now, it’s time for us to take over.

We are a group comprised of boaters who have traveled past this decaying relic for many years and have wondered “what if….”

We are preservation historians and architects who have the knowledge and skills to help us achieve the “what if…”

We are a team of talented volunteers representing a variety of disciplines necessary to get this work done.

In short, we are a passionate group who will let nothing stop us from achieving our mission.

The City of Chicago has many competing financial responsibilities and initiatives, and most are far more important to Chicagoans than the maintenance and preservation of our historic Lighthouse. Our goal is to remove the financial burden of the Lighthouse from the taxpayers of Illinois and Chicago and to fund our work with private donations and grants.

Let us remember that our quest to Save the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse is not just about bricks and mortar, but about honoring our past, embracing our present, and safeguarding our future. The beacon of this magnificent structure represents not only a guiding light for mariners but also a symbol of resilience and community spirit. Together, we can ensure that future generations will be able to bask in the awe-inspiring beauty of this Lighthouse and appreciate the stories it holds within its cast iron walls.

We can all be the guardians of history and the architects of a brighter tomorrow.

Onward, my friends. Let our commitment shine as brightly as the Lighthouse itself.

Be Safe and Be Well!

Regards,

Kurt Lentsch

Chief Dreamer and President, Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse

Your contribution will enable us to offset the start-up costs for the

Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse

and begin the work of preservation and restoration...

We are very grateful for your generosity.

The Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse is a 501c3 organization

so please make a tax-deductible gift to help us Save the Lighthouse!

www.SaveTheLighthouse.org

Photo credit: John Sheehan

CHICAGO PHOTOGRAPHER, LIGHTHOUSE VOLUNTEER,

BARRY BUTLER

Whenever Barry Butler returned to his native County Wexford, Ireland as a young boy, he would visit the Hook Head Lighthouse on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The 800-year-old medieval structure captivated Barry’s imagination, as he wondered what it would be like to be a lighthouse keeper during the golden age of sail.

As Chicago’s most beloved photographer, Barry’s fascination with lighthouses is evident in his admiration for the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, which he has photographed hundreds of times, from helicopter, drone, and boat.  

More recently, as a volunteer for Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, in 2022 Barry had the rare chance to explore and shoot the interior of Chicago’s most iconic, yet inaccessible, maritime structure. Along with volunteers and City of Chicago engineers, Barry boarded a motorboat that docked at the Lighthouse the summer of 2022 to assess its condition.

“What an incredible experience,” says Barry. “Like many people in Chicago, I’ve always wondered what this beautiful structure looks like from the inside. Through the various rooms, you can see how the light keepers lived and worked. Our goal is to give everyone a chance to climb the circular iron staircase to the historic lamp room and enjoy a Chicago skyline view that is second to none.”

Barry began his photographic career shooting nature scenes, mainly from Ireland and National Parks. He used his time in Chicago to practice his technique before heading overseas and out West to capture vistas and valleys. But he quickly became enamored of Chicago’s ever-changing architecture.  

At the same time, as an early social media devotee, Barry learned how to present his art online and generate thousands of followers. He sells his photographs through individual pieces, books, and yearly calendars.

In August 2022, Barry displayed his seasonal photos of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, and Buckingham Fountain at a Navy Pier exhibit entitled “Flow – Water Brings Life to Chicago,” 

Barry’s commitment to helping raise awareness of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and its need for restoration comes from a unique perspective as a photographer.

“When you look west, beyond the Lighthouse, the juxtaposing of this rustic structure against a skyline of shining glass buildings, it’s clear that our Lighthouse has been left behind,” says Barry. “As the first building that welcomes air travelers from the east to Chicago, it’s time we give our beautiful Lighthouse the attention it deserves.”

You can order Barry’s latest book, Chicago: Morning, Noon and Night here:

https://www.barrybutlerphotography.com/books/morningnoonnight

Photo credit, both images: Barry Butler

Photo credit: Osprey Observe

NATIONAL LIGHTHOUSE DAY - AUGUST 7, 2023

In the vast maritime history of the United States, lighthouses have served as beacons of hope, guiding ships and sailors through treacherous waters. These iconic structures have played a vital role in ensuring safe navigation and protecting lives at sea. Recognizing their significance, National Lighthouse Day was established to honor these guardians of the coast and celebrate their historical contributions.

The roots of National Lighthouse Day can be traced back to August 7, 1789, when the U.S. Congress approved an act to establish and support lighthouses, beacons, buoys, and public piers. This landmark legislation, signed into law by President George Washington, marked the birth of the United States Lighthouse Service (USLHS). Over the following years, the USLHS diligently erected lighthouses along the nation's expansive coastline, safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of countless mariners.

The idea of dedicating a day to honor lighthouses gained traction in the 19th century as maritime communities recognized the importance of these structures. However, it wasn't until 1989 that the United States Congress designated August 7 as National Lighthouse Day, commemorating the bicentennial anniversary of the federal lighthouse establishment. This special day pays homage to the rich maritime heritage and the relentless efforts of lighthouse keepers, who faithfully tended to these beacons, ensuring their lights stayed illuminated.

National Lighthouse Day serves as a reminder of the remarkable legacy left by lighthouses. It encourages preservation efforts for these architectural marvels that have stood as sentinels along the coastline. Historical societies, preservation organizations, and lighthouse enthusiasts organize various events on this day, including guided tours, exhibitions, and educational programs. These activities not only celebrate the engineering and architectural achievements but also shed light on the human stories and experiences associated with lighthouse keeping.

Lighthouses are more than just navigational aids; they embody strength, resilience, and hope. The symbolism behind these towering structures resonates deeply with people worldwide. National Lighthouse Day provides an opportunity for communities to express their appreciation for lighthouses and the men and women who served as keepers. It acknowledges the important role lighthouses played in connecting the nation, fostering commerce, and safeguarding lives.

As we commemorate National Lighthouse Day, we honor the legacy of these architectural icons and the dedication of those who maintained them. While many lighthouses have now been automated or decommissioned, their historical significance remains indelible. Through ongoing efforts in restoration, preservation, and education, we can ensure that future generations understand and appreciate the invaluable contributions of lighthouses to our maritime heritage.

National Lighthouse Day stands as a beacon of recognition for the vital role lighthouses have played in shaping the United States'; maritime history. It serves as a reminder of the unwavering commitment of lighthouse keepers and instills a sense of appreciation for these majestic structures that have guided ships safely through the night for centuries.

In 1978, Sterling Bemis, a salesman for Good Housekeeping Magazine, learned that Chicago Harbor Lighthouse was being fully automated and the resident four Coast Guardsmen would be leaving.

Bemis hired a lawyer and began negotiations with the Coast Guard over his desire to live in the lighthouse. After months of negotiating, Bemis finally convinced the Coast Guard it was a good idea as his presence would help preserve the lighthouse and prevent vandalism, which had already occurred since automation.

On December 1, 1979, Bemis finally signed a lease with the Coast Guard. “Half of my friends thought it was the best idea they ever heard of. The other half thought I should be fitted for a straitjacket,” Bemis said.

Being a view freak and a lover of the lake, Bemis had found his perfect home, at least during the warmer months. He kept his apartment in the city, but enjoyed living in the lighthouse for several years. 

Source: www.lighthousefriends.com

VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME AND TALENT

Photo credit: Barry Butler

We need your help, and we are asking you to volunteer and join us in our mission to save the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and keep its legacy alive for generations to come. 

We are a passionate organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and celebrating the historic Chicago Harbor Lighthouse for future generations. Our mission would not be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers who share our passion and commitment to this iconic landmark.

As a volunteer with Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, you will have the

opportunity to gain valuable experience, meet new people, and make a meaningful impact in preserving a historic Chicago landmark that is cherished by our city.

If you are interested in donating your talents and joining our team, please visit our

volunteer page at savethelighthouse.org/volunteer to learn more.

Currently, we are seeking talented and experienced part-time volunteers to assist us in the areas of fundraising (especially grant writing), construction, and community outreach to help us build and maintain our connections to local and national organizations.

41°53'22"N 87°35'26"W

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