This is an edited version of an interview first heard in May 2020. The guest is Richard Skidmore, who was the modern day keeper of Gay Head Lighthouse on Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts for 31 years. The light station at Gay Head was the first on Martha’s Vineyard, beginning service in 1799. The light station at Gay Head was the first on Martha’s Vineyard, beginning service in 1799. The 1856 brick lighthouse tower that stands today is perched on the famous Gay Head cliffs, which were named for their bright, multicolored layers of clay.
Besides being a 21st century lighthouse keeper, Richard Skidmore is an award-winning experimental filmmaker whose work has been seen on television and in many festivals. He’s also a former book reviewer for the New York Times. He retired from his keeper position in 2021. His wife, Joan LeLacheur, a jewelry maker, shared the lighthouse keeping duties.