The Kennebec Explorer 2015 Visitor's Guide to Maine's Kennebec Valley | Page 9

Presenting Maine’s ONLY Inland Lighthouse — The Ladies Delight Light — The Ladies Delight Light, a small lighthouse set on Lake Cobbosseecontee near Manchester, is Maine’s only active inland waters lighthouse. It sits on a small island located in the bay near the north end of the lake; its light flashes 365 nights a year. Built in 1908, the lighthouse was designed by Frank Morse, a Boston marine architect, and erected by the Cobbosseecontee Yacht Club. Originally, its light was provided by kerosene lanterns; a volunteer keeper went out each evening to trim the wicks, clean the globes and light the beacon. A reflector in the light was rotated by a system of weights from a longcase clock. Located in the lake’s North Bay, the lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. In 2001 it had a severe list corrected, and in 2005 a new top constructed of marine-grade aluminum was installed. On August 9, 2008, a 100th anniversary celebration was held at the lighthouse. In 2011 an exterior restoration secured the Ladies Delight Light’s position as the crown jewel of Lake Cobbossee. The lighthouse can be seen at a distance from various points along the shoreline but is best viewed by boat. Various lodging establishments on the lake — like the Lakeside Motel and Cabins and Yukon Cottages in East Winthrop — occassionally offer boat rental or cruises allowing for the unique opportunity to view the lighthouse from the water. Delightful Tidbits – Located on Ladies Delight Island, the tower is 25 feet tall and is equipped with a 100-watt light. – It has been powered by kerosene, wind and presently electricity. – It was built with the aid of two oxen transported to the island one at a time on a barge. – There were once two other lighthouses on the lake: the Belle Island Lighthouse and the Crow Island Lighthouse. – The Cobbosseecontee Yatch Club continues to maintain the light. Learn more at KennebecValley.org 7