Robbins Reef Light with the 9/11 “Tear Drop Memorial” donated by Russia in the background. Photo by Mitch Waxman

 

The little lighthouse in the harbor has been getting some much-needed renovation-love recently.

Built in 1883, the tiny “spark plug light” has been an iconic fixture in our harbor, generations have passed her daily to and from work, school and play.

 

Resolute passing Kate’s Light. Photo by John Skelson

 

Since 2011, Robbins Reef Light under the stewardship of The Noble Maritime Collection at Snug Harbor Cultural Center on Staten Island, has been quietly undergoing a colossal restoration.

 

The lighthouse sits near Bayonne Dry Dock and Repair. Photo by Mitch Waxman

 

The Wall Street Journal: The $1.5 million project is intended to re-create the space for a permanent exhibit that will show the interiors and exteriors as they looked from 1886 to 1919, when light-keeper Katherine Walker held the fort.

 

Standing guard at the KVK. Photo by Mitch Waxman

 

Robbins Reef Light is also more familiarly known as “Kate’s Light”, named for her most famous keeper Katherine Walker, who tended the light for 33 years after the passing of her husband in 1886, and is responsible for saving more than 50 seafarers during her tenure.

Read more from the Wall Street Journal here…

 

posted by Mai Armstrong, h/t to Dr. Roberta Weisbrod – Chair, Working Harbor Committee