There is a Light That Never Goes Out: The Jones Point Lighthouse Museum
Ashley E. Smith
Professor Monaghan
MUSE E-110
11 December 2022
Title: There Is a Light That Never Goes Out: The Jones Point Lighthouse Museum
The Jones Point Lighthouse Museum aims to showcase the transformative narrative of lighthouses, shifting the focus from the singular figure of the historical "Lighthouse Keeper" to modern-day "River Keepers"—a community-driven initiative rooted in citizen science. This exhibition seeks to spark public interest in the restoration of the Jones Point Lighthouse, encouraging support from both local residents and visitors alike. By fostering a deeper understanding of the Potomac River’s environmental significance, the exhibition will highlight efforts to preserve local waterways and promote community engagement in conservation.
Exhibition Purpose and Objectives
The core purpose of the Jones Point Lighthouse Museum exhibition is to raise awareness about the historic value of the Jones Point Lighthouse and its potential as a center for environmental education and conservation. This project, which involves the restoration and renovation of the lighthouse, aims to transform it into a hub of educational activity for the preservation of the Potomac River. The ultimate goal is for visitors to leave the museum with a greater appreciation of the history of the U.S. Lighthouse Service, an understanding of the role the Jones Point Lighthouse played in Alexandria’s history, and a connection to local conservation efforts today.
Through its exhibitions, the museum will seek to inspire action in its visitors. The exhibition will provide resources and information on how individuals can contribute to local conservation efforts, either through volunteer work, donations, or simply by becoming “River Keepers” in their own communities. As a result, the museum aims to not only educate visitors about the importance of preserving the Potomac River but also engage them actively in the cause, leaving them with the sense that they can make a tangible difference through observation and citizen science.
Target Audience
The target audience for the Jones Point Lighthouse Museum is diverse, encompassing local residents from the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area (DMV), as well as tourists, school groups, and visitors recreating in the park. The museum is designed to engage people of all ages, from families to history enthusiasts and environmental advocates. The exhibition will cater to school field trips, local community groups focused on the Potomac River, and individuals interested in the preservation of natural and historical landmarks. By appealing to a broad range of people, the museum hopes to foster a widespread sense of community ownership over the future of the lighthouse and the river it overlooks.
Shifting the Narrative: From Lighthouse Keepers to River Keepers
The central theme of the exhibition, There Is a Light That Never Goes Out, revolves around a fundamental shift in the way lighthouses are perceived. Traditionally, lighthouses have been symbols of isolation and duty, with lighthouse keepers living solitary lives dedicated to guiding ships safely through treacherous waters. However, the Jones Point Lighthouse Museum reframes this narrative by presenting the modern-day role of the "River Keeper," individuals who actively participate in citizen science and conservation efforts to protect the environment.
This shift highlights a broader trend in the preservation of natural and historical sites, where communities, rather than individuals, are taking on the responsibility of safeguarding their heritage and natural resources. The museum will present a vision of lighthouses not just as solitary monuments but as active centers for community collaboration and environmental stewardship. By positioning the lighthouse as a hub for conservation education, the exhibition will encourage visitors to think of themselves as part of a larger movement for ecological preservation.
Educational Goals and Visitor Experience
The exhibition aims to achieve several key educational goals. First, visitors will gain a solid understanding of the history and significance of the U.S. Lighthouse Service and the role of lighthouse keepers. Through this historical context, visitors will also learn about the specific contributions of the Jones Point Lighthouse to the history of Alexandria, Virginia, and its role in guiding ships along the Potomac River.
In addition to its historical focus, the exhibition will emphasize the current threats facing the Potomac River and other local waterways. By informing visitors of the challenges posed by pollution and environmental degradation, the museum hopes to inspire them to take action in support of local conservation efforts. The museum will also provide resources for those who wish to become involved in local environmental organizations, such as river cleanup initiatives, environmental advocacy groups, and local water sports clubs.
The exhibition will encourage visitors to actively engage with the material by offering information on how they can contribute to conservation efforts. Through interactive displays, informational brochures, and volunteer opportunities, the museum will empower visitors to take the first step toward becoming "River Keepers."
Challenges and Special Display Concerns
Given the museum's location in a wooded park by the Potomac River, there are several logistical challenges to consider. One of the primary concerns is the accessibility of the lighthouse, which is situated on a gravel and grass path that may pose difficulties for visitors with mobility impairments. To address this, the museum plans to make accommodations such as paving the path, building a ramp for wheelchair access, and expanding doorways to meet ADA standards. For visitors unable to access the second floor or other parts of the lighthouse, virtual tours or docent-led sessions will be offered as an alternative.
Another concern is the museum’s limited space. Since the lighthouse is small, the exhibition will employ timed entry tickets to ensure a smooth flow of visitors. The size of the space will also necessitate rotating exhibits every three months to preserve the historical artifacts on display. While rotating collections will maintain visitor interest and encourage repeat visits, they will also require additional storage and conservation efforts. The museum will focus on securing items related to Jones Point Lighthouse from other lighthouse stations, as the original artifacts are scarce or have been relocated to other institutions.
Exhibition Duration and Future Plans
The exhibition is intended to be a permanent fixture at the Jones Point Lighthouse. However, due to concerns about the preservation of artifacts, the museum will rotate its collections quarterly. The first three months after the museum’s opening will be critical for gathering visitor feedback and adjusting the exhibition accordingly. Over time, rotating the content will allow the museum to highlight different aspects of lighthouse history, local environmental issues, and the evolving role of the "River Keeper."
In conclusion, the Jones Point Lighthouse Museum seeks to honor the history of the lighthouse while also creating a space for modern-day conservation efforts. By blending historical education with contemporary environmental advocacy, the exhibition will inspire visitors to become active participants in preserving the Potomac River and its surroundings. Ultimately, the museum’s goal is to create a lasting connection between visitors and the preservation of both the natural and historical heritage of the Potomac River region.
Storyline and Proposed Content
Room 1: Ground Floor (Labeled "A" on Floor Plan)
Theme: The History of Jones Point Lighthouse
Jones Point Lighthouse Keepers
Objects/Art: Photographs and biographies of the keepers.
Display: Framed displays above the faux fireplace, each featuring a photograph, biography, and information about their family members.
Key Keepers:
George L. Deeton (1856-1857)
J.P. Geisendaffer (1857-1861)
Benjamin Franklin Greenwood (1866-1906)
Margaret Greenwood (1906)
Francis E. Wilkins (1906-~1917)
Timeline of Jones Point Lighthouse
Objects/Art: Graphic Timeline.
Display: Graphic displayed on a vertical wall panel.
5th Order Fresnel Lens and Fuel Vessels
Objects/Art: The 5th order Fresnel lens, fuel cans, and accessories.
Display: Two wood-and-glass display cases—one for the Fresnel lens and the other for fuel-related items. Between the cases, a wall panel will discuss the lens, wick structure, and fuels.
Interactive – Fog Horn Sound
Objects/Art: Rope that triggers fog horn sound.
Display: Pull rope to activate the sound of the fog horn, referred to as the "voice" of the lighthouse.
Information Panel on Fresnel Lens Sizes
Objects/Art: Information panels.
Display: Mounted on vertical panels to explain Augustine-Jean Fresnel's invention and its function.
Bench for Resting
Objects/Art: Bench.
Display: A place for guests to sit and rest.
Jones Point Lighthouse Keeper’s Log Book
Objects/Art: Logbook encased in fiberglass.
Display: Positioned on a pedestal.
Model Ship/Boat
Objects/Art: Models of river traffic from different historical periods (e.g., sailboats, cargo barges, steamboats).
Display: Mahogany tables with vintage trunks, each holding fiberglass-encased models, surrounded by items like sacks of Alexandria exports (e.g., tobacco, hemp).
Interactive – Coat Rack
Objects/Art: Slickers, hats, wellies, and lanterns.
Display: Aesthetic item station that allows guests to try on period-specific items (similar to Caleb's Lighthouse by Stewart Sherwood).
Interactive – US Lighthouse Service Replica Items
Objects/Art: Lighthouse Service badges, binoculars, telescope.
Display: Guests can try on replica badges and use binoculars/telescope to view a barge on the river visible from the window.
Acquisitioned Items of Daily Use
Objects/Art: Binoculars, charts/maps, books, pipe, whistle, etc.
Display: Items placed in a fiberglass case, under the window, representing daily life at Jones Point Lighthouse.
Replica Keeper’s Log Book and Bureau of Lighthouses Instructions
Objects/Art: Replica log books, instructions, rations checklist, authentic keeper’s letter.
Display: Displayed on a hutch-desk setup with period-appropriate items (fountain pens, coffee mug, etc.).
Lighthouse Keeper Uniform (1881)
Objects/Art: Period uniform.
Display: Displayed on an antique valet furniture piece with a list of the keepers who would have worn it.
Room 2: Ground Floor (Labeled "B" on Floor Plan)
Theme: The U.S. Lighthouse Service
Lighthouse Keeper Uniforms
Objects/Art: Various Lighthouse Service uniforms.
Display: Busts/mannequins wearing uniforms with accessories.
Aneroid Wall Barometer
Objects/Art: Barometer.
Display: Mounted on the wall next to mannequins.
Photographs of Lighthouse Keepers
Objects/Art: Photographs of Keepers from across America.
Display: Framed photographs or mounted wall panels.
Lighthouse Keeper Medical Chest
Objects/Art: Authentic or replica medical chest with supplies.
Display: Two chests on an antique table, one open with supplies scattered, and one closed.
Photographs of Lighthouse Keepers Performing Duties
Objects/Art: Log book pages and photographs.
Display: Mounted on a panel with captions.
Replica Rescue/Transportation Dingy
Objects/Art: Replica dingy with mannequin.
Display: Protruding from the wall with surrounding panels explaining its use.
Dinghy Oars
Objects/Art: Oars.
Display: Mounted crossed above the fireplace.
“Profile of a Keeper”
Objects/Art: Log book entries, artifacts from lighthouse keepers.
Display: Wall panel with artifacts below.
Room 3: Second Floor (Labeled "C" on Floor Plan)
Theme: The Potomac River Today
Interactive Potomac River Table
Objects/Art: Interactive table showing river topography and markers.
Display: Buttons to trigger boat journey animations and sound effects (e.g., storm sounds, seagulls).
Charts of the Potomac River
Objects/Art: Charts showing tides, depth, navigation, and shipwrecks.
Display: Mounted on wall panels with accompanying photographs.
Coast Guard Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Objects/Art: PFDs, mannequins.
Display: Mannequins wearing various PFDs, with educational Coast Guard information.
Life in the Potomac
Objects/Art: Photographs and artwork of life under the river’s surface.
Display: Wall panel above the fireplace.
Interactive Buoys and Markers of the Potomac
Objects/Art: Flip chart of buoys and markers.
Display: Flip chart for guests to learn about various markers.
Interactive Nautical Knots
Objects/Art: Chart of important nautical knots with sample ropes.
Display: Shadow box with real knots, affixed ropes for guest practice.
Coast Guard Buoy
Objects/Art: Real buoy.
Display: Wood and fiberglass display case.
Resting Bench
Objects/Art: Bench.
Display: A place to sit and rest before or after climbing stairs.
Room 4: Second Floor (Labeled "D" on Floor Plan)
Theme: My Potomac
ALX Renew
Objects/Art: Information about ALX Renew’s water quality mission.
Display: Wall panel.
Sailing Club of Washington
Objects/Art: Information and pamphlets.
Display: Table with merchandise and pamphlets.
Alexandria Community Rowing, Old Dominion Boat Club, Titan Rowing
Objects/Art: Information and pamphlets.
Display: Table for display.
Potomac River Keeper Network
Objects/Art: Information about the Potomac River Keeper Network and mussel program.
Display: Aquarium showing mussel water filtration.
Virginia Water/American Waterworks Association
Objects/Art: Information on the water cycle.
Display: Wall panel and related materials about water infrastructure.
US Lighthouse Keeper Uniform vs. Modern Coast Guard Uniform
Objects/Art: Mannequins in uniforms.
Display: Comparison of uniforms from different eras.
Environmental Films about the Potomac River
Objects/Art: Film screen and seating for viewing.
Display: Screen with platform for lectures and information panels.
Film Seats
Objects/Art: Seating for film viewings and lectures.
Display: Seating arrangement for educational sessions.
*For the sake of Squarespace, this project has been revised and edited to fit properly. Please keep in mind that this was written to a rubric for a grade. If you’re interested in the full paper as assigned or in collaboration, please email Ashley on our contact page.
