The Peru Gazette

IT’S LIGHTHOUSE SEASON – You are invited to join us on Sunday, July 9, at the Peru Dock to visit the historic Bluff Point Lighthouse on Valcour Island. Captain Mick Maynard will provide round-trip transportation. The $30 per person fee will include a Valcour Island Heritage Trail Guide and George Clifford’s book on Lake Champlain Lighthouses. Special Lighthouse T-Shirts will also be on sale that day. The boat, which holds 4-5 people per trip, will begin shuttling at 9:30 am with trips to the island every 20 minutes. The Lighthouse will close at 2:30 pm and all visitors to the Island must return by 3 pm. In the event of wind or thunderstorms, the tour will be canceled and a rain date registration for August 6th will be offered. Refunds due to the cancellation will be made if requested.

Pre-Registration, payment and scheduling departure times must be done by July 7th to guarantee a spot on the boat. Once on the island, a Docent will be available for tours of the Lighthouse. Participants must know that the trip requires the physical ability to debark and board from the Island’s natural landing, walking on uneven surfaces over rough terrain and climbing stairs. The Island is also famous for poison ivy plants. An adult must accompany anyone under the age of 12 and those under the age of 16 must bring and wear their own life jackets. Individuals may bring a picnic lunch to enjoy while on the island and must carry out what they carry in.

Visitors to the Lighthouse will view displays depicting the history of Lake Champlain Lighthouses, Lake Champlain’s Military History, the 20th Century Camps on Valcour Island and the Life of a Lighthouse Keeper. You may climb to the Lantern Room to see the functioning light and enjoy the outstanding views from the outside platform.

For more information and to register your spot, please call the Clinton County Historical Association at (518) 561-0340. Information about the Lighthouse can be found on Facebook or the Museum’s website.

The lighthouse is also open each Sunday in July and August for those who wish to provide their own transportation. Guided tours will be provided, and visitors will receive the Valcour Island Heritage Trail Guide. The Lighthouse will be open from 1 pm to 3 pm each Sunday. Tours are free, and donations are appreciated. Stamps are available for your United States Lighthouse Society Passport.