As the tercentennial anniversary for the Boston Light is approaching, the United States Coast Guard selected Cenaxo to perform the major repairs and restoration of the light and all the buildings on the island. Since Cenaxo had completed offshore lighthouse projects in the past, our experienced team was able to properly plan and execute this multifaceted restoration to the nation’s oldest lighthouse station (1716).
Work consisted of a complete restoration to the lighthouse including; industrial repainting of all the cast iron, replacing the glazing enclosing the original Fresnel lens, as well as a full masonry restoration. As the last manned lighthouse in the country, hurricane grade windows were installed in the Keeper’s Cottage along with new cedar shingle roofs and sheet metal to protect Sally Snowman, the 70th keeper of the Boston Light and her staff.
Among the many interesting aspects of this restoration was the protection of the Second Order Fresnel lens. Originally installed in 1859, the lens had to be carefully lifted off its brass wheels and protected in place. This process is necessary because when the 4000-pound glass lens stops rotating, the original brass wheels would be damaged by the weight. Cenaxo’s team secured the priceless lens and was able to complete the restoration of the light.
As with any offshore project, logistics are one of the paramount concerns as it affects all aspects of the project from our first priority of safety to the smallest details like having all of the materials, tools and equipment needed everyday. Work crews were living both on the island and close by in Hull, MA. It was a great challenge for our team and they excelled in every area. We are so proud to be a part of the Boston Light Station’s long history!