When we picture lighthouse keepers, we tend to imagine something romantic and solitary—a bearded man on a rocky shore, battling the elements. But in the United States during the 19th century, lighthouse keeping was deeply practical, deeply demanding work, and women were far more involved than most of us realize.

In this episode, we take a closer look at female lighthouse keepers and the essential role they played in keeping early America functioning by focusing on two women: Abbie Burgess and Ida Lewis.

Let us know what you think in the comments!


Sources:

Beacons of History: The Women Lighthouse Keepers of National Marine Sanctuaries

United States Lighthouse Society: Female Keepers

Twin Lights: Honoring Women Lighthouse Keepers for Women’s History Month

Arlington Cemetery: The Bravest Woman in America

United States Coast Guard: Female Lighthouse Keepers

Heroines of the Hudson: The Untold Story of 19th-Century Women Lighthouse Keepers

Wikipedia: Abbie Burgess

United States Coast Guard: Abbie Burgess

United States Coast Guard: Ida Lewis

Wikipedia: Ida Lewis

Wikipedia: Ida Lewis Rock Light

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