Post-visit Activities

The Cat and the Keeper

Light stations often had cats. Cats could keep the mice away, and they were good companions for the keepers and their families.

Imagine that it is 100 years ago. Create a story about a lighthouse cat that follows the keeper all day and watches what he or she does. Can you remember all the jobs the lighthouse keepers had to do? How are things different at the light station today?

Help Wanted

The year is 1886. You are a member of the U.S. Lighthouse Board and are charged with finding a keeper for the light being constructed at Mosquito Inlet. You must write a job description, including the duties and responsibilities for the position, as well as the personal qualities (like being willing to rescue people in the surf) needed. What education and experience should your applicants have?

Fast-forward to the present day and create a job description for a contemporary light station worker. How much have things changed?