ELIZABETHTOWN-KITLEY – The fundraising campaign to rebuild the Five Mile Light, destroyed by fire following a lightning strike last July, got another significant boost on May 8, with the announcement that Burnbrae Farms Foundation will match, dollar for dollar, all future donations up to $30,000.
Coal Shoal Lighthouse, also more commonly known as Five Mile Light was the oldest mid-19th century wooden lighthouse, situated in Cole Bay for 162 years. However, on July 23, 2018 the lighthouse burst into flames after being struck by lightning.
Since then, a citizen group in partnership with the Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley, have established a committee to raise funds and rebuild the lighthouse. Most recently, Burnbrae Farms Foundation, has committed to help the cause.
In making the announcement, foundation director Sue Hudson, described the lighthouse as an important part of 1000 Islands history and a “river icon with special significance for generations of the Hudson family.”
“I remember visiting the lighthouse in my teens and seeing my Aunt Jean’s name in large letters on the second floor [dating back to the early 40’s],” she recalled. “Five Mile Lighthouse holds wonderful memories for many families and individuals, and the Foundation is pleased to play a part in making the rebuild possible.”
Fundraising committee chair Bob Runciman, in thanking the foundation, described the donation as a huge step towards reaching the committee’s $200,000 goal. “We’re optimistic that the matching nature of the Foundation donation will encourage many businesses, families, boaters and others to donate now and put Five Mile Light back on Cole Shoal where she belongs,” he said.
