From Maine to Connecticut, lighthouses still help boats and ships navigate the waters of New England. Tim Pettee, president of the Green Ledge Lighthouse Preservation Society, will discuss the Norwalk lighthouse’s more than 100-year history, both as a navigational aid and a cultural draw, in remarks to the New Canaan Men’s Club Jan. 10, at Morrill Hall in St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.
The meeting will begin at 10 a.m., with Pettee’s talk scheduled to begin around 10:40 a.m.
A sampling of other notable New England lighthouses include Maine’s Portland Head Lighthouse, Nantucket’s Brant Point and Sankaty lighthouses, and Rhode Island’s Goat Island Lighthouse.
An investment fund advisor, Pettee was moved to launch the Green Ledge Lighthouse preservation efforts while boating with his family in Norwalk Harbor, launching the Save the Light campaign in 2017. Since then, it has raised nearly $2 million to restore the 52-foot tall lighthouse built in 1902. Now, more than 120 years later, it continues to serve as an active navigational aid.
The history of the Norwalk lighthouse suggests F. Scott Fitzgerald, who spent time in Westport, was alluding to the lighthouse with his references to the green light that draws Jay Gatsby’s attention in his landmark novel, The Great Gatsby.
Along with the local lighthouse, Pettee, of Rowayton, is expected to speak about other lighthouses that dot the New England coastline.
The Men’s Club has openings for new members, men 55-years old and above. For information about joining, email ncmens@ncmens.info.