Keeping the Lights Alive

Who We Are

Our Mission

Founded in 1998, NELL exists to educate the public about lighthouse and maritime history, support the preservation of New England's historic lighthouses, and foster a community of people who cherish these enduring symbols of our coastal heritage. We believe that every lighthouse tells a story — of the keepers who tended them, the mariners they guided, and the communities they served.New England Lighthouse Lovers (NELL) Is a New England based, not for profit, lighthouse organization dedicated to:

• Learning more about lighthouse and maritime history through educational meetings, programs and site visits.

• Raising funds to help preserve and restore New England lighthouses and other maritime sites and encourage vounteerism in the preservation and restoration process.

• Encouraging the appreciation of lighthouses in maritime history and how their representational models aid in the preservation of this history.

• Since 1999, NELL has donated over $185,000 to New England Lighthouses and Lighthouse Museum Preservation efforts. Founded in 1998, NELL members come from the six New England states as well as far southwest as Hawaii, as far northwest as Washington State, south to Texas and many states in between. We schedule two weekend membership meetings a year, spring and fall, rotating the location within the 6 New England states. We hold a business meeting, have speakers and annually recognize a Ms. NELL and a Mr. NELL. A second day is devoted to visiting and enjoying area lighthouses and related maritime sites, traveling by land and sea and gaining access to many of the lighthouses and towers.