Stories from the Light: Gears, Grease, Guts and Glow

Join a park ranger in historic lighthouse keeper attire and step into the living machinery of the Point Reyes Lighthouse, where precision engineering and human dedication work hand in hand. Down in the tower, you’ll encounter the lighthouse’s intricate system of gears, weights, and bearings, all designed to turn a massive lens with perfect timing.

But behind every smooth rotation was a keeper who was listening; winding it through storms, troubleshooting its quirks, and safeguarding sailors through dangerous waters. The life of a keeper was not for everyone. Discover how this 19th‑century engineering masterpiece and the people who tended it worked together to create an unwavering promise of light for 105 years.

Drop-in anytime between 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM. Programs are approximately 15 minutes long and occur on a rolling basis.

Please note: This program meets in the large building at the bottom of the Lighthouse stairs. The climb is strenuous and program participants should be prepared to climb about 25 to 30 stories worth of stairs on the way back up. Bring water, wear appropriate footwear and make sure to bring layers, as weather at the Point Reyes Lighthouse can change quickly. 

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

Latitude and Longitude 37.995621, -123.023154

Schedule

Drop in anytime between 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM. Programs are approximately 15 minutes long and occur on a rolling basis.

Contact Information

Stephen Covey
415-464-5100
Contact Us

Event Type

• Living History
• Talk