No Place Like Home: Lighthouse - Feature on KSBY news

Kristin Leal, The Great Outdoors: Lighting the way to San Luis Obispo - Featured in the Monterey Herald

By Diane Jenkins, Keeper

RESTORATION PROJECT BECOMES A PUBLIC PARK

The historic Point San Luis Lighthouse has seen many changes over the last 120 years, since it was built in 1890. But luckily, due to the care and combined efforts of many forward looking individuals, agencies, clubs, and a team of dedicated volunteers (Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers), the lighthouse sets once again proudly welcoming visitors to come share its history and stories.

It has been a very long road to restore the Lighthouse from its derelict state in 1995 when the Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers, a non-profit corporation, began. Over 65,000 volunteer hours later, and many community and state partnerships forged throughout the years, have helped bring the lighthouse from a restoration project to a public park. Click to view major benefactors.

This year marks some very pivotal moments for the Lighthouse. The Lighthouse Fresnel Lens was returned and needed repairs were completed by a renowned lampist. Over one ton of lead paint was removed from the Keepers’ quarters and fresh coats of paint applied. The Keepers’ purchase of a classic Trolley expanded public access by providing regular Trolley Tours on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. Our heads are happily spinning with all the bustle of activity.

The work goes on and restoration continues with other structures on site in earnest. From the complete overhaul of the tired and neglected 1960 duplex to the rebuilding of the original barn are now in the works. Plans for beach stairs, more walkways, and landscaping dance in our heads, but for now we all can take a moment to gaze out to sea and say this has been a very good year.