MARBLEHEAD, OH -- The Marblehead Lighthouse Historical Society today received the prestigious Chief's Award from Ohio State Parks. It is the state park system's highest honor, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
This award recognizes the important support that historical society members have provided to Marblehead Lighthouse State Park over the last five years, said Ohio State Parks Chief Dan West, during ceremonies held today at the park.
The historical society is only the fifth recipient of the Chief's Award.
Marblehead Lighthouse State Park is home to the Great Lakes' oldest lighthouse in continuous use. Since 1822, the distinctive Marblehead Lighthouse beacon has guided mariners in and out of Sandusky Bay on Lake Erie.
In 1998, the State of Ohio assumed possession of the lighthouse from the U.S. Coast Guard and officially dedicated the structure, its on-site Keeper's House, and surrounding grounds as a state park. Shortly after, a group of local residents formed the Marblehead Lighthouse Historical Society to raise funds, conduct tours, collect historical memorabilia for the park's museum, and staff the Keeper's House.
Barb Unger, president of the Marblehead Lighthouse Historical Society, accepted today's award on behalf of the organization.
While the historical society is the specific recipient of this award, recognition must also go to the entire Marblehead community for its enthusiastic support and dedication to maintaining the park and everything it represents, West said.
Persons interested in working as volunteers at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park, should contact Scott Doty, park manager, at 419-797-4530.