by Jon Coe

Created on: November 07, 2007

There is no such thing as the best lighthouse bed and breakfast! This is because they are all so unique! Who would have thought to restore such structures to their natural and original beauty? Certainly, with much foresight, caring and love, one can only appeal to the necessity of the mother of invention and convert, these once, vital maritime ladies of the lamp, into viable accommodations that pay for their preservation.

A price and a little sacrifice comes with every worthwhile experience! So why not include a lighthouse bed and breakfast, in your next adventure? Visiting some of these historical buildings, may involve a little boat ride to an island or a reasonable trek, sometimes well off the beaten path.

You may be required to bring along some bedding and enough food for yourself and even share a kitchen with the other guests. However, along with the restriction of certain modern appliances and the bare basics of lighthouse living, one should be able to appreciate and capture the mood quite easily, thus adding more flavor to your adventure.

The Saugerties Lighthouse, for example; Was constructed in 1869, at the mouth of the Esopus Creek, on the Hudson Bay. It was inhabited and remained fully functional for approximately eighty five years. Then, in 1954, the light was converted to an automated system by the coast guard and the attendance of a keeper was no longer required. Although the lighthouse remained in service, the building itself fell in to much disrepair.

It wasn't until 1978, that the ruins of the Saugerties Lighthouse drew concern and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Structures. In 1985, a local Conservancy Committee was formed and through the efforts of extensive fund raising and five years of incredible care and restoration, the building was brought back to it's original state.

The Saugerties Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast, is offered to the public year round, as a place to visit and/or a place to stay. It is furnished moderately and in keeping of it's time, but one will have to provide ones own bedding and towels. Breakfast is served every morning to the overnight guests and other meals can be prepared in the shared kitchen area.

The Saugerties Lighthouse can be easily accessed, either by land or by boat. The little lighthouse island is connected to the mainland by a short road and although one may wish to experience their surroundings without civilization, there are plenty of restaurants and entertainment near by, for those that would prefer the best of both worlds.

There are many lighthouse bed and breakfasts scattered around the shores of the US. All are surviving in the best possible way that they know how! Saugerties Lighthouse, is just one example of the care, restoration and preservation, that is needed, in order for these structures to survive.

With the emphasis on preserving these remarkable land marks, it is no wonder that thousands of people take an interest each year; It is not only a worthwhile education, but it is a contribution to a valuable part of America's heritage.

Thank you, Saugerties Lighthouse Conservancy Committee! A job well done!
http://www.saugertieslighthouse.com/

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