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New York's Esopus River Light has one final chance to be saved. If the new group now in charge can't save it, the Coast Guard says it will be demolished.
The lighthouse, in the Hudson River, is in danger of toppling over into the water. The southeast corner of the building is separating. Because of the ice build up over the years, the foundation has become unstable and the house is leaning toward the east shore.
Pat Palen Ralston, who is organizing a fund raising effort to save the lighthouses, said that this is the last chance for the historic structure. The lighthouse was scheduled for demolition after the efforts to save the lighthouse by another group failed. Ralston said if her new group can't save it, the Coast Guard will blow it up, since it will soon create a hazard in the waterway.
The first lighthouse at this site was built in 1839, but was torn down and replaced with the current structure in 1872. One of the last of the keepers here, had two deodorized skunks, a dog and a rooster as pets. The stationed was closed in 1965.
If you are interested in donating money or helping this group, you can call Pat Ralston at 914-297-1569.
This story appeared in the December 1997 edition of Lighthouse Digest Magazine. For subscription information about the print edition, click here.
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