Shining a Light on an Oregon Coastal Treasure

YACHATS, Ore., Feb. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time in its 116-year history, Heceta Head Lightstation, located in Yachats, OR, has a formal organization dedicated to its preservation. Founded by local residents concerned for the well-being of the historic lightstation, the Keepers of Heceta Head Lightstation (KHHL) non-profit corporation will benefit Heceta Head Lightstation by helping to preserve the historic structures and document the artifacts, furnishings, historical significance, maritime and surrounding areas.

"It's a new and exciting chapter in Heceta Head Lightstation history. With the formation of KHHL, we can accelerate the historic preservation of one of Oregon's most iconic beacons," said KHHL president Steven Bursey. "Our immediate projects will focus on lightstation restoration, enhancements to the Interpretive Center and the expansion of the Light Keepers' House to make it handicapped accessible. We are pleased to be serving the community and working to cultivate a new generation of Heceta Head preservationists."

In order to raise the necessary funds for its programs, KHHL will be seeking grants and funding from foundations and endowments that focus on historic preservation and restoration, education, and sustainability. Important funding will also come from members. KHHL is offering annual membership levels starting from $35 through www.HecetaHead.org. Members will be updated regularly on preservation efforts at the lightstation.  

Since 1894, the Heceta Head Lighthouse has been a sentinel for sea goers navigating the treacherous Pacific. The light station's classic American architecture, combined with its striking natural surroundings, captures the hearts of visitors from around the world. The lighthouse is a working lighthouse. From a height of 205 feet above the ocean, its "first order" Fresnel lens, casts its beams some 21 miles out to sea. It is the brightest light on the Oregon coast.

In 1995, after many years of restoration work, certified executive chefs Carol and Mike Korgan opened the original Queen Anne-style Light Keepers' House as a bed and breakfast. The breakfast soon grew to a seven course Victorian-style feast, highlighting the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. Heceta Head is considered the most photographed lighthouse on the Pacific Coast. Heceta Head Lighthouse and the Light Keepers' House are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

For more information about Keeper's of Heceta Head Lighthouse or to join as a member, visit www.HecetaHead.org

For more information about the Light Keepers' House, visit www.hecetalighthouse.com

For more information about the Heceta Head Lighthouse, visit www.oregonstateparks.org/park_124.php

SOURCE Heceta Head Lightstation