By Jeffra Wise DeViney
Sabine Pass Lighthouse celebrated Louisiana Lighthouse Day by bringing back an event from 20 years ago – The Sabine Pass Lighthouse Hayride. 275 people signed up to attend and had a chance to see the tower and tour the grounds. In attendance were: visitors from Agen and Paris France; numerous persons from California, Colorado, Rhode Island, Missouri, Florida, Alabama, plus Ontario, Canada; as well as numerous visitors from Southwest Louisiana.
Members of the Cameron Parish Tourism, Cameron Preservation Alliance and Cheniere Energy LNG were on hand to greet visitors. Other sponsors instrumental in helping with the event were: Venture Global LNG; Delfin LNG, LLC; On Stream CO2i SE Texas Amateur Radio Operators; Southern Screen Printing; Shangri La Ti Da; Lousiana Souvenirs and Sundries; Gulf Coast Bird Club and Flock of Five.
This marks the 20th anniversary of the hayride tradition that had a hiatus period due to interruption by storms. The last event took place in October 2004.
A history and nature tour was presented on the grounds of the lighthouse. It is registered on the U. S. National Register of Historic Places.
Cameron Preservation Alliance is trying to repair and preserve the Sabine Pass Lighthouse which has been abandoned since 1952.
Restoration efforts have been ongoing for years on the 85 foot structure mostly by volunteers and private donations. The original staircase fell in 2008 during Hurricane Ike. Private donations were secured to replace the steps along with help for many othere to secure the supports.
This event was held in conjunction with events at the Southwest Reef, New Canal and Tchefuncte Lighthouses of Louisiana. Governor Jeff Landry had proclaimed Nov. 1 – 3, as Louisiana Lighthouse weekend in the state of Louisiana.
To visit the Lighthouse, stop at the Johnson Bayou Library Branch, 4586 Gulf Beach Hwy. Cameron LA 70631, or call 337-569-2892 during library hours. If the library is closed call 409-460-1851 to secure permission.
The U. S. Lighthouse Society Passport stamp is available at the library or can be secured by mail by sending your request to the address above. Include a check for $1 made out to the Cameron Preservation Alliance along with a self addressed stamped envelope.