Message from our Historian

I am hoping that since you are reading this, everyone is weath- ering the COVD-19 crisis. I have spent the past three months isolated in my house, as many of you. There has been some good news-I have a new grandson, James, age 6 months, and my family is healthy.

I think I would be remiss if I did not share something about the last “Great “pandemic, the Spanish Flu, that lasted from 1918- 1920. Spain was neutral during WWI so there were the usual cross border exchanges of goods and people. Early in 1918, the flu began striking in Spain, which incidentally had the highest national death toll from this disease. However, because of the war in Europe, it received little attention. American servicemen returning from the war brought it back to the U.S. Early on, many called it the Kansas Flu because most servicemen returning from Europe were sent first to Ft. Riley Kansas. Over 44,000 service- men died of the Spanish Flu while on active duty. Camp Custer, Michigan lost over 640 men in 34 days!

As the Lighthouse Historian, I have joined the National archives to aid in finding more information about our lighthouse and its history. Thus far I have been able to confirm listings for 10 Light Keepers and 12 Assistant Light Keepers. Many of the assistant positions show a progression up the ranks. The archives document a lengthy history and association of many of these men with our city. I have also discovered several old photos and postcards showing the lighthouse. The search continues..... Trivia: The daily ration allowance for light keepers in 1918 was $.30!

Thanks Earl Tucker