Lighthouses and Lamplighters in Commerce (Poem)

The Lamp Lighter by Murad Abel

Lighthouses are part of the naval and seafaring beginnings of our great nation. Sea travel is an important method of transferring goods and information. Lighthouse were part of the infrastructure that ensured ships could safely make their way around dangerous points and into harbors. Without the lighthouses more ships and goods would be lost costing the early American economy greatly.

Military and civilian ships were often at danger from foreign influence, pirates and nature. Of the most damaging was Mother Nature with her ability to lead ships into rocks, disoriented plotted courses, and conjure bow crushing storms. Lighthouses provided guidance and protection for ships to help them navigate channels and hazards.

Lighthouses maintained the job of reducing overall cost and expenses of shipping. When ships are lost the economy slows down. Back in the day lives could be lost and people would not receive needed supplies. The lighthouse helped to ensure that this lose was lessened and people could continue to navigate waters as safely as possible.

The Lamp Lighter

Of up right stature he once was,
a hunched creature he has now become.

Makes his way up the winding stairs,
Each step a heavy labor to the darkened sky.

Ocean air whips his face,
A coat of sheep's wool his comfort.

A little light of passageway markers,
Jumps possessed from stick to wick.

His face is illuminated,
A full days light in tow.

He shields his eyes from what they can bear,
Blows out his light and heads down the stairs.

The painting is called the Lamp Lighter to honor all those who keep safe passage for the rest of us. Their job is one of no glory but of major importance to commerce. 

McCoy House Museum in Old Town San Diego

James McCoy emigrated from Ireland in 1850 as a member of Brevet-Lieutenant Colonel John Bankhead Magruder's First United States Artillery. McCoy was a catalyst to the growth and development of Southern California (1).  He was elected county assessor and then sheriff being fully active in the life of the times and eventually was a state senator in 1871. He is responsible for a number of subdivisions around San Diego and helped with limited success to bring the railroad to San Diego (2).

The museum is located in the Old Town Park of San Diego and is free for visitors. As a historical marker it provides a glimpse into yesteryear and how people lived their lives. You can walk into the museum and smell the ancient sights and pieces of life that were once part of common everyday experiences. From the hardwood banisters and ancient rugs you can almost travel back in time. 

Mrs. McCoy was somewhat of a poet and wrote them within here letters to other people. You may enjoy an example. A little wisdom in this poem. 

Wherever You dwell,
May content be Your lot,
and friendship like Ivy,
encircle Your cot, May each
rosy Morn dressed in Mantle
of peace Shed health oe'r,
Your dwelling, Your
Blessings Increase.

Location: 4002 Wallace Street
Old Town State Historic Park, Old Town
San Diego, CA
Phone: (619) 220-5422

Website

Pictures:Walking to Old Mission Dam Along Father Juniperro Serra Trail

Buy Old Mission Dam

Old Mission Dam at Mission Trails is located along the San Diego River and Father Junipero Serra Trail. It provides an easy to walk and bike trail that allows for an exciting view of both the mountainside as well as the San Diego River below. Biking, walking, jogging, dog walking and hiking are common activities that occur here. After a few miles you will come to the historical Old Mission Dam that gives just a touch of San Diego’s history. 

The Old Mission Dam’s history dates back to 1809 when Church leaders needed water for irrigation and survival. Local Indian labor was used to help create the dam and basin that still stands as part of the ruins (1). It was one of the most ambitious projects in the California mission chain and helped develop the area.

Buy San Diego River

The Old Mission Dam and flume have an interesting design. It follows from Ancient Rome and allowed a great amount of work to ensure that it continued to flow downward. The dam was operational around 1813 and the flume around 1816 leading to a resurgence of the Mission in the 1820’s (2). When it rained hard the flume would still risk being damaged and removed. 

The walk is great for watching the mountainside and nature. It is known as a favorite for bird lovers and dog walkers. The steep sides of the mountain side and jagged rocks that roll down into the ravine where the river maintains a flush environment are of interest here. You will be able to enjoy nature while getting in great shape.  Read more about the Old Mission HERE.

Purchase Old Mission Dam II