Montauk lighthouse in the spotlight
A view of the Montauk Point Lighthouse from Camp Hero State Park. (2006) Credit: Newsday/Alejandra Villa
Finally, a beam of recognition for the historic lighthouse at Montauk Point.
President George Washington ordered it built, and from 1797 until the late 19th century it steered ships headed to the Port of New York away from the treacherous rocks surrounding the point.
The designation comes after Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) lobbied Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to name the lighthouse a National Historic Landmark. It becomes the 12th place to receive that designation in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
The lighthouse had been rejected for landmark status twice before. Beauty isn't enough, and historic significance must be proved. Determined members of the Montauk Historical Society showed how crucial the beacon once was by combing through old records that documented the importance of shipping to New York, and illustrated how relied upon the lighthouse was by ship captains.
The designation is not an empty honor. It will now be easier to apply for federal funds to maintain the lighthouse and museum, and the vulnerable touchstone will be given top priority for aid if it is damaged by a hurricane or other natural disaster.
Those who live on Long Island and those who have visited Montauk know what a treasure the lighthouse is. That the federal government has formally acknowledged the tower, one of Long Island's few iconic images, is wonderful news.
