Volume 2, Issue 6 - June 2024 | |
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Dear Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse,
June marks the official start of the summer season, a time when our city's vibrant energy truly comes to life. It’s the perfect opportunity to get outside and explore the rich maritime heritage that lighthouses represent.
I encourage you all to take some time this summer to visit our neighboring lighthouses in the area. Each one offers a unique glimpse into the history and possibilities of lighthouse preservation and inspires our ongoing efforts with the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse.
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I want to thank the City of Chicago's Department of Planning and Development (DPD) for their gracious invitation to the Chicago 2024 Preservation Expo. This event was an incredible platform for connecting with fellow preservationists and gaining insights from experts across various fields. The DPD's support has been instrumental in our recent efforts to further document the existing conditions of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. Their collaboration is vital to our mission, and we are grateful for their continued partnership.
Our presence at the Preservation Expo was a testament to the significance of safeguarding our historic landmarks. The opportunity to engage with representatives from over 30 exhibitors, including architectural firms and specialized consultants, has enriched our understanding and equipped us with invaluable resources. This, in turn, strengthens our preservation work and underscores the importance of your support in our mission.
As we step into the summer, we carry the momentum from the expo and our shared commitment to preserving our maritime history. I eagerly anticipate our upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, where we can further our mission together. Your participation is crucial in ensuring that the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse continues to shine as a beacon of our shared heritage for generations to come.
Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our cause. Enjoy the beautiful summer season and make the most of this time to explore and appreciate the historic lighthouses that grace our shores.
Be Safe and Be Well.
Regards,
Kurt Lentsch
Chief Dreamer and President,
Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
P.S. Please stay tuned for an opportunity to show off your support of our mission this summer. Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse T-shirts are coming soon!
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If you are part of an organization that has an interest in financially supporting our efforts to Preserve, Restore, and Celebrate the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, please reach out to Nick Naber (nicknaber@savethelighthouse.org), our treasurer and a member of our fundraising working group. | |
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Even a small donation could help
Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
reach our fundraising goal.
And if you are unable to make a monetary donation at this time, we ask if you could please share the fundraiser information, to help our cause.
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Your contributions enable us to offset the start-up costs for the Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and begin the preservation and restoration work that is greatly needed on this historic place... 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
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Celebrating History: Highlights from the Chicago 2024 Preservation Expo | |
In a momentous celebration of National Historic Preservation Month, the City of Chicago marked a significant milestone by hosting its inaugural Preservation Expo on May 18, 2024. This unique event united a dynamic community of preservationists, architects, consultants, and enthusiasts, all committed to safeguarding the unique historical tapestry of our vibrant city. The expo, a visionary initiative of the Department of Planning and Development (DPD), unfolded at the Northwestern Law School Campus, offering a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan, a setting befitting the grandeur of this historic occasion. | |
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The FOCHL Board was proud to have three members attend this inaugural event, where they had the pleasure of meeting representatives from over 30 exhibitors. These exhibitors ranged from renowned architectural firms to specialized consultants, showcasing innovative approaches and solutions for preserving and revitalizing historic structures.
The expo started with inspiring opening remarks by DPD Commissioner Ciere Boatright, who emphasized the importance of preserving Chicago's architectural heritage while looking forward to sustainable and innovative future developments.
Following Commissioner Boatright, Alderman Brian Hopkins shared his insights on the role of community involvement and local government in preservation efforts, underscoring the city's commitment to maintaining its historical landmarks.
The event's highlight was undoubtedly the keynote address delivered by Chicago’s very own Geoffrey Baer. A beloved figure in the world of historic preservation and a familiar face to many as the host of numerous WTTW documentaries, Baer captivated the audience with his deep knowledge and passion for Chicago's history. His address delved into the stories behind some of Chicago's most iconic buildings, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's architectural evolution and the ongoing efforts to preserve its unique character.
Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to engage in lively discussions and explore a variety of exhibits. The expo provided a platform for exchanging ideas, forming new partnerships, and fostering a collective sense of purpose among all participants.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants who made this event a resounding success. Your presence and contributions have been invaluable. Let us continue to celebrate and safeguard our shared history, ensuring that Chicago's past remains a vibrant and integral part of its future.
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Perfect Weather for Perfect Documentation: Our Visit to the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
On a sun-kissed morning that perfectly illuminated the beauty of Lake Michigan, our team embarked on a crucial mission to the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse on Saturday, May 4, 2024. The purpose of our visit was twofold: to document the current condition of this historic beacon and to verify some of the details required for our National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act Application (NHLPA) response.
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The weather was a perfect ally, with its clear skies and gentle breeze, ideal for our mission's requirements of aerial and ground photography. Accompanying us were John Sheehan, a skilled drone operator, and Barry Butler, a renowned photographer celebrated for his breathtaking captures of Chicago's landscapes and landmarks.
We divided the group into teams upon arrival to ensure a comprehensive documentation process. John prepared his drone for aerial shots while Barry readied his equipment for detailed photography of the interior lighthouse from the base to the lantern room. Our goal was to capture every aspect of the lighthouse, from the basement to the lantern room, to provide an accurate and thorough record of its current state.
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The perfect weather, combined with John and Barry’s expertise, allowed us to create a comprehensive and detailed record of the lighthouse's current condition. This documentation is a critical step in our NHLPA application process, demonstrating the lighthouse's significance and our commitment to its preservation.
As we move forward with our NHLPA application, we are optimistic about the future of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the City of Chicago DPD for their continued support. We also thank our members and the community for their ongoing dedication to preserving this maritime treasure.
Stay tuned for more updates on our NHLPA application and future preservation efforts. Together, we can ensure that the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse continues to shine as a beacon of history and hope for generations to come.
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Discover the Maritime Marvels: 10 Must-See Lighthouses Near Chicago
As summer unfurls its sunny charm, it's the perfect time to explore the historic and picturesque lighthouses of the Lake Michigan shoreline.
The Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse are thrilled to present a simple guide to the ten must-see lighthouses in the area. Each beacon holds a unique story, a glimpse into the maritime history that has shaped the region.
Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or simply looking for a scenic adventure, these lighthouses will captivate your imagination. They will also give you a taste of what’s to come at the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse!
| Grosse Point Lighthouse, Evanston, IL Photo Credit: Ryan Krusell - Lighthouses of the Great Lakes | Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse, Kewaunee, WI Photo Credit: Ryan Krusell - Lighthouses of the Great Lakes | |
Wind Point Lighthouse, Racine, WI Photo Credit: Ryan Krusell - Lighthouses of the Great Lakes | |
St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse, Benton Harbor,MI Photo Credit:Ryan Krusell -Lighthouses of the Great Lakes | |
Book a Save The Lighthouse Presentation | |
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If you are part of a group of 25 or more interested in learning more about the history of our lighthouse and our efforts, please contact Steve Clements (steveclements@savethelighthouse.org to discuss the possibility of scheduling a presentation for your group.
These presentations will discuss the Lighthouse’s rich history, present condition, and future plans to celebrate and share with the public, its significance to the legacy of Chicago history.
Speakers Kurt Lentsch, President, FCHL and Edward Torrez, Preservation Architect, have engaged audiences throughout the city for many months with their thoughtful and inspiring presentations on the CHL.
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Volunteer Your Time and Talent | |
Photo credit: Barry Butler | |
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We need your help. 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're 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 fundraising (especially grant writing), construction, and community outreach, helping us build and maintain our connections to local and national organizations.
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Some of the talented volunteers, who are building this dream. | |
Copyright © 2024 Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse - All Rights Reserved. | | | | |
