Discounts Available for Residents to Tour Bakers Island Light

During Saturdays in August, Salem residents can get a discount to explore the rich maritime history of the Bakers Island Light Station in Salem Harbor on one of Essex Heritage’s boat trips.

Salem residents get 20 percent off when purchasing tickets in person at the Salem Visitors Center at 2 Liberty Street. A proof of residence is required and the discount is not valid with any other discounts.

Bakers Island Light Station is located on Bakers Island in Salem Sound, a 60-acre island with a large summer colony.

The 10-acre light station is located in the northwest quadrant of the island, and has been owned and operated by the federal government since 1798.

On August 27, 2014 the deed to historic Bakers Island Light Station was transferred from the United States government to the Essex National Heritage Commission.

This June Essex Heritage raised $30,000 through a Kickstarter Campaign to preserve this historic landmark.

The rest of the island is in private ownership, including the Bakers Island Wharf. Currently the only way for the public to gain access is aboard Essex Heritage’s landing craft, Naumkeag, which leaves from Salem Ferry Dock.

Essex Heritage is a nonprofit agency that manages the Heritage Area, and works in collaboration with the National Park Service to promote public/private partnerships, and develop programs that enhance, preserve and encourage regional awareness of the area’s unique historic, cultural and natural resources.

For more information, visit Essex Heritage at www.essexheritage.org or call (978) 740-0444.