Sally Snowman Retires After 20 Years as Boston’s Lighthouse Keeper
After two decades of tending to the historic Boston Light Beacon on Little Brewster Island in Massachusetts, Sally Snowman, the last official lighthouse keeper in the US, is retiring from her post. The iconic beacon, which was built in 1716 and designated a national landmark almost six decades ago, will soon be sold to a private owner. However, the new owner will be required to preserve it, ensuring that the legacy of the lighthouse remains intact.
Snowman, who has become known for welcoming visitors to the island in 18th-century attire, expressed her deep connection to the lighthouse, sharing that she first visited it at the age of 10 and dreamed of becoming a lighthouse keeper. Her passion for the role has been evident throughout her tenure, leading her to write three books about her experiences at the historic site.
As the first woman to hold the position of Boston Light’s caretaker, Snowman has become a trailblazer in a field traditionally dominated by men. She has embraced the responsibility of upholding the traditions of the lighthouse keeper while also recognizing the need to adapt to changing times.
Despite the lighthouse being fully automated since the 90s, Snowman’s dedication to preserving its history has been unwavering. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the legacy of the lighthouse and ensuring that its stories and traditions continue to be shared.
Snowman expressed optimism about the future of Boston Light, predicting that the new owners and their staff would continue to honor the lighthouse’s rich history. She emphasized the significance of preserving historical landmarks such as Boston Light, indicating the importance of keeping these places alive through ongoing conversations and storytelling.
As Snowman bids farewell to her role as the keeper of Boston Light, her impact on preserving the legacy of this historic landmark is sure to endure for years to come. Her dedication to upholding the traditions of the lighthouse keeper has left a lasting mark, ensuring that the beacon’s significance will be remembered and appreciated by future generations.