Lighthouses on the Chesapeake Bay
August 10 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
$79.55
John Potvin retired in 2015 and started volunteering at the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. He was appointed the Lighthouse Manager in 2020 and has been instrumental in the restoration of the lighthouse. He is a Certified Chesapeake Bay Storyteller and lives in Annapolis within site of the historic lighthouse.
Details
- History Monday Sunset Sails occur every Monday, May-September 21.
- Different topics and speakers vary throughout the season.
- Our bar includes a selection of Craft Beer, Wine & Bubbly available for purchase!
The iconic Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is the last surviving screw-pile lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay still in its original location. Once, more than 40 screw-pile lighthouses dotted the Bay’s waters, guiding mariners safely through its busy shipping channels.
This year, the lighthouse is one of just 50 local national heritage sites being featured by the Maryland Department of Commerce in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary.
Potvin will discuss the rise—and eventual decline—of screw-pile lighthouse technology, explore why this innovative design was so well-suited to the shallow waters of the Chesapeake, and reflect on the critical role lighthouses played in shaping America’s maritime commerce, coastal communities, and economic growth.
