Curtis Island Lighthouse Foundation Launches Historic Restoration Plan and We Need Your Help!
Photo: Jon Cunningham, Compass Light Productions
We are pleased to announce the launch of the Curtis Island Lighthouse Foundation (CILF) — a community effort to fully restore and preserve the Curtis Island Light Station, to document its history, and to establish educational programs and materials.
December 2022 Storm Damage
Photo: Michael Skaling
For the past 42 years, the Town provided capital for major projects including a new roof in 2001, asbestos removal and temporary roof repairs in 2021 and 2022. During this time volunteer caretakers of Curtis Island continuously scraped and repainted the light station structures, maintained the island grounds and trails, and greeted the public. Because of the exposure of Curtis Island Light Station to extreme wind and weather, the required repairs from recent and ongoing damage has exceeded the capacity of volunteer efforts.
CILF and the Town of Camden are working together to raise funds through private donations, grants, and town reserve funds to complete a professional comprehensive plan for these historic buildings at the entrance to Camden Harbor.
CILF and the Town have contracted with Historic Buildings Architects (HBA), to complete a multi-year master restoration plan with detailed budgets.
After completing the restoration analysis, CILF’s goal is to restore the island’s four existing historic buildings. The analysis will focus on the Light Tower, Lightkeepers House, Barn, and Fuel Shed. With annual support from the Town of Camden, we will also raise funds for a perpetual maintenance endowment to ensure the Curtis Island Light Station is protected and a vital part of Camden for the next 100 years.
Curtis Island has a history of running on volunteer help.
Photo: David Conover
Volunteers needed!
We’re looking for volunteers in various areas, from fundraising to carpentry, historical research, and caretaking. Volunteers are needed to repair areas of damaged shoreline and clear downed trees from Curtis Island trails.
Example of an access plan using ramp and floats as seen in a 2006 temporary solution. Photo: Susan Mustapich
As a volunteer, you’ll play a crucial role in the restoration. You’ll have the chance to contribute your skills and time in a way that suits you. Whether you’re interested in hands-on work on the island or behind-the-scenes tasks on the mainland, there’s likely a place for you on our team.
To join us, visit the volunteer page on our website and fill out an application. It includes a list of potential roles, a legal disclosure for your protection, and a section for you to tell us about yourself. We want to know why you’re interested in volunteering, what skills you can bring, and how much time you can commit.
Developing an Access Plan
Before any work can begin on historic restoration projects, Curtis Island needs improved access for construction crews and volunteers. Current access has been compromised by erosion from recent storms at both tidal dependent staircases.
We are working with the town and local businesses to secure floats, moorings, and a ramp through donation or gifts-in-kind for the 2024 season.
Securing access for immediate renovation and construction needs will provide safe and enhanced public access in future when the renovation is complete.