The brilliant white Burnt Island Lighthouse tower, set off by the island's dark background, paints one of the most beautiful harbor scenes in New England. The 30 foot beacon was built in 1821, marking an entrance to Maine's busy fishing harbor of Boothbay. Burnt Island Light was one of the first of many beacons in the area, and was one of the last to be converted from kerosene to electricity. It was also one of the last to loose their loyal lightkeepers to automation.
   As of 1998 the historic beacon has been transferred to the Maine Department of Marine Resources. Under department guidance, the buildings have been restored to circa 1950. Local contractors and hundreds of enthusiastic volunteers have transformed the light station into the Burnt Island Living Lighthouse, an educational and recreation area relating to Maine's maritime heritage and coastal environment. The living history program, including a period lighthouse family, has enjoyed rave reviews.

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