[SLIDESHOW] Instagram Tour: Nantucket Lightship

Posted on: January 18th, 2013 by Roberta Lane

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my time at the National Trust, it’s that people love lighthouses. I’ve had the privilege of working with a passionate, effective corps of advocates for these romantic beacons, and have often met fans who make a point of visiting lighthouses while touring around our country.

There is a similar band of preservationists focused on saving historic vessels. I think people are so compelled by these elements of our maritime heritage because they represent the best of the American spirit -- ingenuity, grit, sacrifice, and adventure.

So I find it really satisfying, but not surprising, to see how much delight is inspired by the Nantucket Lightship/LV-112, a floating lighthouse and one of our National Treasures. You can learn more about the Lightship and our work there on SavingPlaces.org, but in the meantime, enjoy a photographic jaunt through this endearing (floating) place.

I’m always excited to point the lightship out to people when I’m by the waterfront, and I’m proud to tell people that it is one of the National Trust’s National Treasures. In the past, the National Trust has supported the U.S. Lightship Museum’s efforts to preserve the Nantucket Lightship with grant funding. Today, we are working with them to ensure a permanent berth for the Lightship and to establish it as an educational center and attraction focusing on maritime heritage and environmental issues.

Find me on Instagram at robertal7, and the National Trust at presnation.

Roberta Lane

Roberta Lane is the Senior Field Officer and Attorney for the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Boston Field Office. She has been with the Trust since 2006, delivering preservation technical assistance and legal guidance in the field. In early 2013, Roberta is transferring to New York City to staff the Trust’s new field office there.