159 Applications For Lighthouse Keeper’s Job
By Sue Clark on Aug 11, 2007 in Lighthouse Keeper 
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The Journal Times Online has reported that 159 people have applied for the position of Lighthouse Keeper at Wind Point (Wisconsin) Lighthouse. These candidates will be winnowed down to the ten best qualified, and from there a decision made to hire one to replace outgoing keepers Jeff and Melissa Peterson. The candidates include single people, couples and retired persons. The board will have to decide what it the best fit for the lighthouse.
Wind Point Lighthouse was closed to the public on August 1, 2007 to receive a $140,000 dollar restoration, including having its masonry repaired, new windows installed, and replacement of deteriorating bricks. Painting is expected to begin in September, with the renovation complete by October 18. Extensive landscaping will be needed after the reopening, and that will be one of the main jobs of the new lighthouse keepers, whoever is ultimately chosen. The other will be meeting and greeting visitors to the 108 foot tall lighthouse overlooking Lake Michigan. THe site is also rented out for weddings and large parties.
Wind Point was one of two lighthouses receiving new windows and doors through a donation from Jeld-Wen. From their press release announcing the winners:
Classic Architecture: Wind Point Lighthouse
At 108 feet, Wind Point Lighthouse is one of the tallest Great Lakes lighthouses, and it certainly lives up to its name. Subject to gale-force gusts, its window openings are now mostly boarded up, some with portholes peeking through. The only recent replacement window is leaky and will not stay shut. Detailed drawings and photos are scarce, and other lighthouses designed by architect Orlando Poe are being researched to determine the style of the original windows and doors.“The support of JELD-WEN Window and Door manufacturer is welcomed at Wind Point. The Village takes a tremendous amount of pride in our lighthouse and the product donation is a crucial boost to restoring the integrity of the tower,” said Missy Peterson, caretaker of the Wind Point Lighthouse. “Currently, Wind Point is known as one of the most photographed Great Lakes lighthouses and I’m sure we will have people returning to shoot the new and improved look.”
“As 20,000 annual visitors come to Wind Point Lighthouse, JELD-WEN’s commitment and generosity will not go unnoticed. The Wind Point Lighthouse is a symbol of our community and it will be even more impressive after the restoration,” said Jeff Peterson, Wind Point Lighthouse caretaker. The tower will undergo structural repairs before new windows and doors are installed.
Being a lighthouse keeper today is a far cry from days past, when trips up the spiral stairs several times a night were required to keep the light burning, and cleaning the soot from the lens and windows. Not to mention polishing all the brasswork. The Lighthouse Service Inspectors even gave the white glove treatment to the homes, so the wives were no less diligent in cleaning. But who can resist living in a lighthouse, especially with a view like that? I know I would take that job in a minute. Would you?
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September 13th, 2007 at 4:37 am
[…] the Friends of Wind Point Lighthouse, village officials and members of the community. They received 159 applications for the job. A decision by them is expected to be made later this […]
November 15th, 2007 at 3:14 am
[…] Wisconsin, nearly 160 people applied for the job of Lighthouse Keeper at Wind Point Lighthouse when Jeff and Melissa Peterson left their […]
December 27th, 2007 at 10:20 pm
To Massachusetts or Rhode Island Lighthouse owners:
Please consider me for the position as Lighthouse Keeper. I do not fear being isolated or work. I owned my own business for over a decade (2, actually simultaniously) while raising my son, now 17. I will be graduating MSCC with Assoc. In Science: Criminal Justice, minor in Psychology. in May 2008. I am extremely loyal and honest. I have references if you need them. My son is willing to be my assistant, if required. Thank you very much for your consideration and your time, Tanya Payne tanyaisa@gmail.com
February 12th, 2008 at 12:30 am
is the job still available
February 12th, 2008 at 10:51 am
No. It was filled.