150th Anniversary of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse Search for Lighthouse Keepers Descendants and Life Savers

Date: May 29, 2009
Contact: Wouter Ketel, [phone] Ext. 3005

Harkers Island, NC – Cape Lookout National Seashore Management Assistant Wouter Ketel is pleased to report that over 80 people have responded so far to the Seashore’s search for individuals and descendents of those that worked as lighthouse keepers and life savers at Cape Lookout.  

The Seashore is working to identify descendents of: 

• Keepers of the 1859 Cape Lookout lighthouse and the original 1812 Cape Lookout lighthouse,
• Life savers who worked in the U.S. Life-Saving Service at the Cape, and
• U.S. Coast Guardsmen who worked at the Cape.

In cooperation with the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center, the National Park Service plans to recognize and honor these individuals during this year’s celebration of the 150^th anniversary of the lighting of the 1859 Cape Lookout lighthouse. 

If you were a keeper, life saver, coast guardsman, or you are a descendant, or if you know a descendant, please contact Cape Lookout National Seashore, with the following information:

• Your name
• Your mailing address
• Your telephone number
• Your e-mail address
• Your ancestor keeper’s name and time at the lighthouse
• Your interest in participating in the event
• Any photos or documents relating to your ancestor that you would be willing to share that would help enrich the event

Please contact Park Management Assistant/Chief of Interpretation Wouter Ketel by phone at 252-728-2250 extension 3005, or by email at e-mail us for more information.

The 150th anniversary of the lighting of the 1859 Cape Lookout Lighthouse is November 1, 2009. Cape Lookout National Seashore is planning special events beginning on Columbus Day Weekend, October 9, 2009, and continuing until the anniversary day on November 1, 2009, to commemorate this important event. Please check for updates on the park web site at www.nps.gov/CALO.