East Brother, can you spare a dime? Historic lighthouse in the Bay needs funds for repairs
East Brother Light Station Inc. is urgently seeking $750,000 to repair its pier and gangway, critical for maintaining public access to the historic lighthouse. Tom Butt, the nonprofit's president, emphasized that failure to secure funding would result in the closure of the bed and breakfast inn, which generates essential revenue for maintenance. Built in 1847 and automated in 1969, the Light Station is recognized as the oldest operating wood-frame lighthouse on the West Coast and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The nonprofit has been the steward of the Light Station for 45 years, restoring it since the U.
S. Coast Guard abandoned it. Currently, an online GoFundMe campaign aims to raise $51,000 for a new prefabricated gangway, but only about $6,100 has been raised as of Friday afternoon. Butt highlighted that even with the B&B's revenue and volunteer support, it would not suffice to replace the pier and gangway. If repairs are not funded, the buildings risk destruction from neglect, vandalism, and weather.
More donation details can be obtained via email from Butt.