National Lighthouse Museum Soft Opening August 7
With an expected soft opening date of August 7, Staten Island’s old Lighthouse Depot will soon be considered the home of the National Lighthouse Museum. August 7 is National Lighthouse Day and this year will celebrate the 225th anniversary of George Washington signing the Lighthouses Act of 1789. After 16 years in the making, the museum will celebrate America’s lighthouse heritage through educational programs about the rich maritime history of Staten Island; including publications, films, festivals, living history, lighthouse trails, conferences and more. It is said to be a part of the borough’s waterfront rebirth as other major projects, including the New York Wheel and Empire Outlets, rise right alongside it.
The National Lighthouse Museum is located just east of the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, along the North Shore Esplanade with panoramic views of the harbor. It includes a large pier for docking any future museum vessels, such as a lightship, as well as private tour boats.
Originally built throughout 1845-1868, the Office building and U.S. Light-House depot complex, also known as the Old Administration Building for the Third District U.S. Coast Guard, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. It was the center of lighthouse operations in the country from 1863 to 1966, housing the Lighthouse Board. In 1966, lighthouse operations were moved, but the pier remained a Coast Guard station until 1978.
The hard opening date to the public is targeted to open in the late fall when regular hours of operation will begin offering class trips, guided group tours and special events. A waterfront restaurant is in the planning stage and there are a series of events and activities such as concerts and tours planned for the site. Visit their website and check out their facebook page for all the updates and timeline.
The National Lighthouse Museum will be one more of the numerous benefits to the residents on the Island adding depth to the already historically rich borough.
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