Blackistone Lighthouse Opening - June 22, 2008
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St. Clement's Hundred president Dick Gass (at podium) welcomes
everyone to the official opening of the just-completed replica of
the Blackistone Lighthouse.
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A couple of hundred invitation-only attendees were able to
attend, many community members and donors who remember the
original lighthouse on the island. Some rode in wheel chairs and
some used walkers but were undaunted in their need to be part of
this special day.
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Most of the guests where brought to St. Clement's Island by the
restored oyster "buy" boat Samuel M. Bailey, piloted by Capt.
Steve Bailey. Capt. Steve was integral to the transportation of
workers and supplies during the lengthy construction process.
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Former Governor Marvin Mandel was among the distinguished
speakers who offered some enthusiastic words of support for the
new Blackistone Lighthouse. Governor Mandel during his tenure
was instrumental in arresting the erosion of St. Clement's
Island with a substantial placement of rip rap at its perimeter.
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Lighthouse project manager Don Cropp (owner of Colony Builders)
happily poses with wife Tina and daughter Katrina after the
ceremony. Don, using the original Blackistone Lighthouse blueprints,
worked diligently to re-create the lighthouse as close to the
authentic one as possible. Don conducted much research, consulted
with experts, used same or similar materials, and shared his passion
for this project by donating much of his time and expertise.
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Care and management of the Blackistone Lighthouse will be
overseen by the Blackistone Lighthouse Foundation. It is their
intent to provide volunteers who can provide tours and allow
visitation inside the building during the weekends when the St.
Clement's Island Museum water taxi is in service. The public is
encouraged to come out and learn about and enjoy this
magnificent replica, a monument to this community's history and
heritage.
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