A seaside lighthouse, exposed to a harsh salt-air environment, has always required a certain amount of ongoing maintenance. Now that the U.S. Coast Guard has rid itself of excess lighthouses and turned ownership over to preservation groups, maintenance of these historic structures have become a labor of love and more of a sentimental attraction rather than a true navigational aid.
   North Carolina's northern-most light station is no exception when it comes to preservation. The Outer Banks Conservationists have stepped in and applied their tender loving care, whether it's time consuming repairs or the difficult tasks of raising funds. And for the restoration work, repair costs have approached a million and a half dollars.
   The Currituck Beach Light Station is less than 15 miles from the Virginia-North Carolina border, nearby famous Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hill. This thin strip of land, separated by the Currituck Sound, doubles as a national wildlife refuge. The light is still a valuable navigation aid as the shoals along the Outer Banks are still as treacherous as ever. As ships head southward, it's common to steer clear of the northbound Gulf Stream and hug the dangerous shoreline.
   For lighthouse fans the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and Museum Shop is open from spring through late November. During periods of high winds and thunderstorms the lighthouse tower may be closed to climbers. Winter months afford more time for on-going restoration and maintenance.

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