Friends of Lighthouse Debut New Boat in Memorial Day Parade

It is fitting that Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse chose Memorial Day to debut their new boat. The U.S. Coast Guard served as keepers of the Riverside light station from 1956 until it was decommissioned in 1974. Driving the truck that pulled “Li’l Pomham II” was Dennis Tardiff, chair of the board of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse and a retired Coast Guardsman. Tardiff was the last Coast Guard keeper at the lighthouse.

Members of Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse participated in the annual Riverside Memorial Day parade to honor those who have served our country in the armed forces. In addition to Tardiff, volunteers included Mary Chace, Sandy Davignon, Adam Dias, Anne Greene, David Kelleher, Brian Louro, Patty Louro, Gary Point, Judianne Point and Nikki Tiernan.

Established in 1871 on a rocky island off the coast of East Providence, the only access to the lighthouse is by boat. The Friends have a 19-passenger launch which they use for public tours from June to September. The new four-passenger boat was purchased to replace one used for emergency access when the launch is not available.

Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse is a 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer chapter of the American Lighthouse Foundation. This important New England maritime light station and museum is an integral part of Rhode Island’s heritage and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. To join Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse or register for an upcoming tour, visit www.pomhamrockslighthouse.org.