CLS: “Sweet Water Lady: The Marblehead Lighthouse Story” by Jennifer Wertz and Tom Koba

With America’s victory in the War of 1812, the Great Lakes were opened to shipping. In response, the Marblehead Lighthouse was built in 1821. However, before it could be built, there were many struggles to overcome in settling the territory. Among the pioneers was Benajah Wolcott, who became the first keeper of the Marblehead Lighthouse. Meet him and his family as they adapt to life in “The Firelands.” Wolcott’s descendants, historians and a former lighthouse resident describe the history of the light and keeper’s house. Acclaimed artists Ben Richmond and Linda McFarlin examine what draws people to this lighthouse and the power behind her simple beauty. A favorite Ohio landmark and national treasure, this Sweet Water Lady is the oldest continuously operating light on the Great Lakes.