About The

Cuckolds

MISSION

Recognizing that people only protect what they love, and they only love what they understand, our community pledged to restore, rebuild, preserve, and maintain the Cuckolds primarily as an historic and educational facility so that residents and summer visitors alike can learn about our region’s rich maritime traditions and history. Our mission includes: 

Historic Preservation

With your help, the Cuckolds and its history will be preserved and passed along to current and future generations. Standing 15 feet above high water, 3/8 mile south of Cape Newagen, this lighthouse marks the approach to Boothbay Harbor. Built in 1892, many sources report that the keepers' dwelling was destroyed in the blizzard of February 1978; but local observers know it was dismantled by the Coast Guard in 1977. Those passionate about the beauty of our Maine coast, preserving maritime history and the well being of American youth can contribute to rebuilding and maintaining the Cuckolds Lighthouse to stand as our community's proud beacon for generations to come. 

Interpretive Education

The interestingly named Cuckolds Lighthouse, still an active aid to navigation, is said to be named after a point of land on the Thames River in England, granted to a Londoner to sooth his anger after King John had an affair with his wife. There is much history, lore, and lure about this Lighthouse, as it has been the site of many marine rescues, a beacon to generations of fishermen, and a chosen burial site for some, including our region's much beloved Leland Snowman. All of us who navigate these waters and who know and appreciate tradition and history will be able to participate in researching, collecting, and sharing historically correct information about the Light. Shoreside kiosks and information displays at local libraries will help locals and visitors gain access to the great stories and histories wrapped up in this iconic symbol at the Harbor’s entrance. 

Youth Development

We envision an educational program that builds skills, knowledge, attitudes, and aptitudes that will help prepare participants to become responsible and contributing citizens and productive, self-sufficient adults. We envision a set of programs rich with experiential learning about topics such as boating safety, coastal navigation, marine habitats, environmental and natural resource conservation, restoration, and more. We envision field trips, and a speakers’ and docents program through which we provide information and materials that can be taken into schools, summer camps, civic and community forums, libraries, museums, community centers such as the vibrant local YMCA, and many other venues. These education programs will afford additional opportunity for Boothbay Harbor residents and visitors to participate in the Cuckolds rehabilitation as volunteers, mentors, and instructors, to learn more about the Light Station and the importance of this resource to our community. 

A Recreation Destination

The ledges afford exceptional views, rocky picnic spots, intriguing tide pools, and the opportunity to explore rugged terrain. These activities will be encouraged, and our keepers will regale visitors with stories and provide information about the Light Station. When the restoration is complete overnight visitors will be welcomed and the navigators club will offer hospitality to many.