The Fenwick Island Lighthouse, one of the most iconic landmarks along the Delaware shore, has recently undergone a major renovation to preserve its historical significance. Led by the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, a group of dedicated volunteers has spent five years refurbishing the keeper’s house and repainting the lighthouse itself.
Winnie Lewis, president of the New Friends group, shared that the project has been a labor of love, with workers from Ocean Tower Construction putting the finishing touches on the lighthouse tower. The keeper’s house, open to the public for the first time this summer, is being furnished with displays that reflect its history.
One of the most captivating pieces of history on display is a photo of Lewis’ grandfather, William Edward Pepper, who served as assistant keeper from 1869 to 1885. Along with original blueprints and keeper’s logs, visitors can catch a glimpse of the daily lives of the keepers and their families.
The renovation of the keeper’s house includes modern updates while preserving its historical charm. A thriving vegetable garden, tended by the grandson of the last private owner, showcases the self-sustainability of the keepers in earlier years.
The Fenwick Island Lighthouse, open to the public on select days, will celebrate its 165th anniversary in August. Donations to support the upkeep of the property are welcome, and the organization is seeking artifacts related to the lighthouse and keeper’s house for display. For more information and updates on visiting hours, visit the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse website.
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Photo credit www.coastalpoint.com