Observing a Sequicentennial

As Gossips readers already know, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. Tomorrow, Thursday, July 11, one HAL (Hudson Area Library) is helping to celebrate the milestone of another HAL (Hudson-Athens Lighthouse) with an in-person talk and exhibition focusing on the preservation of this important local landmark.

Photo: Jonathan Simons

The talk, which takes place at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday in the Community Room of the Hudson Area Library, 51 North Fifth Street, will be presented by Van Calhoun, a volunteer, board member, and chair of the HALPS (Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservati0n Society) Restoration Committee.

The following is quoted from a press release for the event:

The lighthouse stands as a testament to the rich maritime history of the region and its pivotal role in guiding vessels during the westward expansion era through the Erie Canal. Despite its historical importance, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse faces imminent threats mostly due to unintended damage caused by enormous commercial vessels using the close-by navigation channel maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

In a captivating celebration of history and heritage, the library will also host a special photo exhibit serving as a visual inspiration for the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society's (HALPS) vision for the lighthouse's future. Curated by the talented Jane Sinclair, a resident of Hudson, the exhibit promises a unique perspective through selected photographs by local professional and amateur photographers. The exhibition will be on view through the month of July in the library's hallway during library hours.

The Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society invites the public to join the preservation efforts--volunteer, fundraise, and participate in celebratory events such as this one. By working collaboratively, we can ensure that the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse remains a beacon of history, education, and community for generations to come.