Bolivar Point Lighthouse Foundation Inc

The Bolivar Point Lighthouse Foundation Inc is a nonprofit organization based in Texas, dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the historic Bolivar Point Lighthouse, constructed in 1872. Recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization, the foundation was established by Mark Boyt and Michael Maxwell, descendants of the lighthouse's first private owners, in 2015. Their mission is to ensure that this iconic structure is preserved for future generations and made accessible to the public for the first time in its history[1][2].

History

The Bolivar Point Lighthouse is one of the few remaining 19th-century lighthouses along the Gulf Coast and is notable for being one of only two iron lighthouses still standing in Texas. Originally lit on November 19, 1872, it served as a crucial navigational aid until its retirement on May 29, 1933. The lighthouse is historically significant, having withstood numerous hurricanes, including the catastrophic Galveston Hurricane of 1900 which served as a refuge for 125 individuals seeking safety from the storm[3][4].

Following its deactivation, the lighthouse was auctioned in 1947 and has since remained under private ownership, primarily within the Boyt family. However, due to neglect and exposure to the elements, the structure has deteriorated significantly over the decades, leading to urgent calls for restoration[3][4].

Restoration Efforts

The foundation's primary focus is the repair and restoration of the lighthouse, with an estimated budget of $2.5 million. In 2018, the foundation commissioned a condition assessment which revealed that critical repairs were needed, particularly to the cupola, which has been described as being in "dire need of repair" and at risk of failure during high winds. The assessment noted that immediate action is required to prevent further deterioration of the structure[1].

Once restoration is complete, the Bolivar Point Lighthouse Foundation aims to open the lighthouse to the public, particularly for educational purposes, and to create a visitor center that will feature the original cupola as a focal point of the exhibit[1][2].

Community Engagement

The foundation actively seeks support from individuals, businesses, and other organizations to assist in its mission. Being listed on the Galveston Historic Foundation's Heritage at Risk list has helped raise awareness about the lighthouse's plight and may aid in securing funding for its restoration. The foundation believes that increased visibility will also help garner support from not just the local community, but from broader audiences across Texas, the United States, and internationally[1][2].

Through these efforts, the Bolivar Point Lighthouse Foundation Inc is committed to preserving a vital piece of Texas maritime history and ensuring that future generations can experience and learn from this historic landmark.