CCB MEDIA PHOTO: Highland Lighthouse in Truro
TRURO – The Cape Cod National Seashore marked the 20th anniversary of the moving of Highland Light in Truro Tuesday.
The oldest lighthouse on Cape Cod was slowly moved away from an eroding cliff two decades ago, preserving the iconic beacon from falling into the ocean.
George Washington was president when the first light was constructed in Truro in 1797. The current structure, built in 1857, is the third lighthouse on the site.
Previous lights were powered by whale oil, lard, kerosene, and eventually electricity.
Representatives from Eastern National, which operates the site were on hand to celebrate yesterday’s milestone.
“The combined efforts of many resulted in the move of the Highland Light. This ensured that the structure would be safe from erosion that had been shifting the cliff walls in front of the lighthouse,” said Eastern National President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Kissling.
The first light was commissioned by Washington as a waypoint for overseas travelers heading toward Boston, and was even visited by Henry David Thoreau.
Cape Cod National Seashore Superintendent George Price praised the community teamwork 20 years ago that helped make the project possible.
“I thinks it’s really important to see that it’s really local roots that can actually do an awful lot of things. Obviously, it was the help of a lot of people, the local politicians, state and federal, the Coast Guard, the Army Corps of Engineers,” said Price.
Before a grassroots effort was formed to save the light, it appeared the Coast Guard was going to abandon the beacon in the face of constant erosion.
Mark Forest, former chief of staff for Congressman Gerry Studds, recalled how they worked to secure funding and partnerships for the $5 million needed to move the light.
Forest said the effort to secure dollars was made even more difficult by a recession that was gripping the state and the nation at the time.
As part of yesterday’s celebration, Price also detailed some major renovation work planned for the lighthouse in the coming years.
The move 20 years ago allowed some moisture that enter the three-walled structure that needs to be remediated. Price said historic architects will be examining the structure to determine what work needs to be done.
The celebration yesterday also featured a performance by the Highland Light Scottish Pipe Band and presentations from 4th Barnstable District State Representative Sarah Peake and Truro Selectman Maureen Burgess.
By MATT PITTA, CapeCod.com News Director
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