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ich Cucé has taken on restoration of the decaying Hoopers Island Light at the auction price of $192,000. “Why” might you ask? The same reason we all look longingly at the Bay and wonder, “What if ?” Why a lighthouse? I’ve been attracted to restoring historic properties most of my life, and there’s not much more historic than a 120-year-old lighthouse in the middle of the Bay. Some folks think I’m crazy to take on such a project, suggesting that I’ve romanticized the idea a little too much. What line of work has prepared you for this? My whole life I’ve been in the industry painting business working with all kinds of metal structures. I have also restored and rebuilt old houses. Hooper Island Light is basically a tall iron house, so I think it is a perfect project for me to take on.
34 March 2023 SpinSheet.com
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V isionary
Interview by Gwen Mayes Why is the lighthouse in disrepair? In 1902, when it was completed, lighthouses were a necessity for safe navigation on the water. Manpower was needed around the clock to light the lamp with oil and keep watch for ice, fog, and other vessels. Much of its function was automated over time, and modern navigation tools have emerged. Lighthouses that remained were often restored by surrounding communities. Others, like the Hoopers Light, in the water and hard to reach, were left to rust. What’s first on the punch list? The first is an inspection to determine what will be needed. We’ll also build a dock for easier access from the water and to serve as an area for loading equipment and materials.
##Photos courtesy of GSA Auctions
What do you expect to be the easiest part? Restoring the exterior will be the easiest part for me. I have done that kind of work all my life, so I have the knowledge, equipment, and experience to do it, even though it is a large job. What do you think will be the hardest part? I think just getting out there and back and on and off the lighthouse during rough weather will be the hardest. I am a naturally optimistic person, so I am trying to expect the worst; but also, in many ways, I don’t know what to expect!