The typical image of a lighthouse keeper is a solitary, grizzled white man in a rain slicker, but the reality was more complex. This document included instructions for keeping the lighthouse in working order and emergency response, but also instructions about matters of daily life, including standards of conduct and the required use of the official Lighthouse Service uniform. Starting in the 19 th century, the Lighthouse Service periodically provided guidance and requirements for its employees, such as the 1927 Instructions to Employees of the United States Lighthouse Service.
During severe storms, the light had to be kept in operation 24 hours a day until the storm was over. The most obvious part of the keeper’s duties was to keep the light operating according to the daily schedule, which would vary from station to station, depending on geographic location, typical weather conditions, and other factors. Although a keeper was responsible for making repairs and well as other routine duties, each one also had to be prepared to respond to emergencies, including shipwrecks. Typically, the keeper’s day began before dawn and ended well past dusk. Coast Guard took over responsibility in 1939.Ī keeper’s job was not quite a 24-hour job, but it could be. The care of the nation’s lighthouses moved from agency to agency until 1910, when Congress created the Bureau of Lighthouses. Lighthouse keepers became civil service employees in 1896. Keepers at first worked under the authority of a local Collector of Customs, though the Collector’s role declined over time as the business of maintaining lighthouses became more professionalized. The Service was the first Public Works Act of the first United States Congress it authorized the transfer of existing lighthouses from the jurisdiction of individual states to the federal government. It’s a ripping read, whether you’re a fan of lighthouses, or are yet to discover their charms.Most lighthouse keepers as we think of them were employees of the United States Lighthouse Service, founded in 1789. While you will be required to work all night shifts, you will have the opportunity to read for pleasure while working the light - just one line at a time.Īs you may have noticed, we got just a little overexcited by our ‘Outing’ feature on lighthouses in our March issue. Plenty of time off during daylight hours. In return, we can offer a fabulous coastal location, excellent views and plenty of opportunity for self-improvement (with the emphasis on ‘self’). It’s probably best if you don’t have too much life experience you’ll only miss it.Īpplicants who self-isolated for long periods during lockdown are encouraged to apply. Must be capable of working independently.Īn enjoyment of one’s own company would be an advantage.Īn appreciation of seagulls would be an advantage. Must be able to confidently change a lightbulb. Resourcefulness (particularly with reference to food preparation as deliveries can be sparse).Įxperience of exterior decorating (on a large scale) would be helpful. Top notch organisational skills and a tidy mind. High level of fitness (the commute involves a lot of stairs). Fancy a career change and something a little different? Apply within…ĭo you have what it takes to keep Simple Things Lighthouse ship hape and Bristol fashion and ensure all ships pass safely around the rocks beneath? If think you fit the person spec below, drop us a line via seagull.
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