Point Reyes Light - November 29, 2001
Park Service to fix Pt. Reyes Lighthouse
By Patrik Jorgensen
The Park Service will spend about $1.3 million to improve features of the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse, park officials said Saturday.
John Dell’Osso, chief of interpretation at Point Reyes National Seashore, told The Light that most of the work will not disrupt public visitation to the site. However, he added, "there’s no doubt that there will be some closures to the public, especially when working on the steps."
The work on the steps will include patching up or replacing the concrete curb lining the 429 steps, and fixing the handrail leading down to the lighthouse. While this work is being done, Dell’Osso said, visitors will not be allowed to walk down to the lighthouse.
The water- and sewage system will also be upgraded as will the electrical system for both the lighthouse and the ranger housing. The lighthouse and surrounding structures will be painted and restored, and repairs will be made to the concrete cistern.
New picket fence
A white picket fence will be added around the small visitor center and the housing. "The fence will certainly improve the look of the place," Dell’Osso said.
The Point Reyes Lighthouse was first lit on Dec. 1, 1870 after more than 40 ships over the years wracked up against the menacing, hook-shaped Point Reyes peninsula.
The first crash was recorded in the 16th century. Ships en route to San Francisco often mistook Tomales Head for the Golden Gate, smashing against the rocks of the Punta de los Reyes, named after the biblical three kings.
The lighthouse seemed cursed from the start. No lighthouse keeper ever volunteered for the spot. The desolation of the peninsula and impenetrable fog for weeks at a time fed oppressive loneliness, and the wind could be maddening. Indeed, at least one lightkeeper did go crazy.
Automated in 1975 while under the control of the US Coast Guard, the historic lighthouse was eventually turned over to the Park Service. A new light has replaced the original beacon although the old light still works.
No closures till summer
The lighthouse has become one of the most heavily visited sites in Northern California, and it is essential that the structures be kept in good condition. said Dell’Osso.
"This is a very welcome project," said Michael Alexander, Advisory Commissioner for the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and National Seashore.
Not all of the repairs are scheduled yet, but nothing will be closed until at least May, when whale-watching season ends, Dell’Osso said. The various work will last much of the year.