Keeper for a Day

Hello, Webby here! This week I'm exploring the Lighthouse, a favorite spot for family visitors. It is over 140 years old and spent most of its life in the middle of Lake Champlain, guiding boats around dangerous reefs as they sailed into Burlington Bay.

The light keeper's most important job was to keep the oil lamp at the very top of the lighthouse burning all the time. He also rang a fog bell when the mist rolled in and ship captains found it hard to see. 

We know that the children of lighthouse keepers sometimes had to perform these duties. One of my favorite books, The Lighthouse Keeper's Daughter by Arielle North Olson, tells the story of a young girl named Miranda who kept the lamp going during a blizzard! You can find it in Owl Cottage.

Here I am, climbing all 43 stairs from the first floor to the lamp room. Think about how many times the lighthouse keeper had to do this everyday. Phew!

If you go to the Lighthouse, be sure to check out our display about Champ, the Lake Champlain sea monster. Do you think Champ is real? Leave a comment and let us know.

Lastly, don't forget to stop by my Dive In station on the second floor to learn more about the Lighthouse and do a fun activity!