Light In The Dark

Light In The Dark

Lighthouses are symbols of safety and continuity. Many a ship has been saved by a sweeping arch of light during a dark and stormy night.

Lighthouse keepers were the epitome of solitude, often sleeping in their oilskins while manning their huge revolving light projectors. When out there in the deepest dark the Keeper is never seen without his tools of the trade, a little lantern and a life ring. Just in case…

Crafted of metal and hand painted with a distressed finish. Each one comes with a numbered metal tag confirming that these are made in limited numbers.

20.5" tall

A Little Light In The Dark Information

There are many sailors alive today thanks to the dedication of the lighthouse keepers and their families. Those who served at wood and coal beacons endured the hardest labor. Early lights did not have roofs until early 1800's.

There was very high maintenance required for lights with mirror or lens. Each day, lenses and mirror needed to be cleaned, wicks trimmed and the clockworks oiled among many other tasks. Each night, it was necessary to assure the light was burning and signal timing was accurate. If you have ever been in a lighthouse, you will find that light towers tend to have spiral stairs up to the top. It was a long hard way up to the top and light keepers were required to carry oil, tools and cleaning supplies up with them.

Along with maintaining the light, fog signal buildings and other equipment were also under the light keepers responsibilities. Cleaning and painting the lighthouse and other structures such as the keeper's house were a rigorous daily routine. Click here to see the porch view from the keeper's house at the Heceta Head lighthouse along the Oregon Coast.

Light keepers were expected to man their station regardless of the climate or weather conditions. If the keeper was sick, he needed to find someone to take his responsibilities. It was a difficult and lonely life.

As for our Light In The Dark Balance Toy, it is completely hand made from recycled metal, hand forged and painted. Each piece is hand waxed in the final stage to give it that warm and subtle shine. Colorful and whimsical decor; seasonal or year round. A beautiful addition to your home, or as a gift!

If you would like to see a balance toy similar to the Light In The Dark Balance Toy, please click here!

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