The property is in need of extensive renovation and initially we are working to stabilize the structures from further deterioration. Although we are faced with a very costly renovation, it is a very exciting time because the future of this treasure is in our hands. We have choosen the early 20th century as the time period to which we will restore the buildings. Wood Island Lighthouse is on the National Historic Register requiring special permits at each stage of renovation.
In the fall of 2009, FOWIL acquired the services of Stone Age Masonry to carry-out FOWIL's first major restoration project of Wood Island Lighthouse. Stone Age Masonry stripped, repaired, and repainted both the inside and outside of the lighthouse tower. This was by far the largest project undertaken by the Friends of Wood Island Lighthouse, and represented an exciting moment for those members who have been with FOWIL since its' inception. In preparation for this project, FOWIL worked with architects and the Maine State Historical society to establish the restoration plan.
In April of 2009 the American Lighthouse Foundation was awarded $380,000 in government funding (ALF Award). Wood Island will be one of the three ALF lighthouses that will benefit from these funds. FOWIL will use its portion of these funds to refurbish the lighthouse keeper's house, hopefully in 2010.
Our first
tower project, the installation of new handrails on
the tower stairs, was finished in July of 2008. The
new handrails allows participants of our summer tours
to safety ascend the tower stairs to the lantern room,
where they can experience Wood Island Light's unique
viewpoint of Saco Bay. Previously, tour guests were
not allowed to climb to the top of the tower. Tour
guests may now experience what it may have been like
for the keepers, who climbed the tower every day to
keep the light running. The completion of this project
comes just as we celebrate the 200th year anniversary
of Wood Island Light. The plans for the handrail
installation were approved by the Maine State Historic
Preservation Commission.
In the fall of 2007 we completed the painting of the exterior of the Keeper's house. After years of paint and deterioration, this paint job will serve to prevent further deterioration until we can undertake the full restoration and it has really refreshed its exterior appearance.
(Many volunteers joined the above, Brad Coupe, A Silver, Jack Moore and George Bruns in painting the dwelling house. It took all summer.)
In the fall of 2006, we replaced the roofing materials on the front porch and installed a new basement bulkhead.
We are always looking for volunteers who are willing to help with our maintenance and restoration projects.
We hope that you will want to become involved in the effort to save this very special place by becoming a member. Memberships are annual from the first of January each year. To become a member or make a donation, please visit our Membership page.
