08/13/2024
As a young “Officer in Charge, Burnt Coat Hbr Light Station Engineman 3rd Class” with the United States Coast Guard, Donald “Don” Costantino served as a Light Keeper from 1970-1972. He is the “straight out of central casting” face on our only photograph of the Fresnel lens in operations. His picture on his plaque greets all visitors who have entered the Keeper’s House during my involvement with the Light. He has been an ardent supporter, was a moving storyteller at our 150th celebration where he spoke of duty and love of place, and I’m lucky to call him friend.
Last summer, Don wrote to me with a wonderful idea from him and his daughters: a memorial bench honoring all the Burnt Coat Harbor Light Keepers. The beautiful “Deer Isle Granite” bench envisioned by Don and his family was installed today and is pictured below. The edge around the oval stone seat was smoothed to the extent necessary to etch the words “In Memory of All the Keepers that Kept this Light Burning” on the shore side and “Don Costantino, EN 3 USCG OINC, 1970-72” facing the water. All costs for the crafting, delivery and placement of the bench were handled by Don and his daughters. H.W. Dunn & Son, Inc. in Ellsworth completed the project.
What better way to pay respects to a service, place and time that have so resonated with those who kept the lamp lit, their loved ones and the community? And what better way to adorn our park like setting? This impressive tribute will provide a much needed sitting spot for visitors and a point of interest with a favorite view.
Thank you, Don Costantino!
