The Cape Sarichef Lighthouse beacon lit in 1904 has a storied history marked by resilience and innovation. Built to guide mariners through the treacherous waters of Unimak Pass. The pass is the first break between mainland Alaska and the Aleutian chain, connecting the Bering Sea to the Northern Pacific Ocean. Over the years, the lighthouse has witnessed numerous technological advancements on its way to automation.

In 1905, a telephone and call bell system were installed, enhancing communication. By 1923, radio telephone systems connected the lighthouse to the outside world, a crucial development for such a remote location. The lighthouse transitioned to automation in 1979, marking the end of an era for its dedicated keepers. Despite these changes, the lighthouse remains a symbol of maritime safety and historical significance.

Image Source: USCG

On April 20, 1903, the steamer Homer was chartered to transport men and materials for the construction of the station. After leaving Astoria, Oregon, on April 29, 1903, the steamer arrived at Cape Sarichef May 13, 1903. The steamer unloaded its cargo onto the rocky shores near the lighthouse. After returning to Portland for more materials, it sailed back on June 23, 1903. Soon there-after the foundation walls of the dwellings were constructed, and significant excavation for the fog-signal building was completed.

The station was expected to become operational once the long-overdue lantern was received. With the exception of the lantern, the construction of Cape Sarichef Lighthouse was completed on October 1, 1903. A small boat capsized during the unloading of materials, proving the station to be dangerous and isolated, as the disaster resulted in the drowning of a laborer.

Additional materials and men arrived in May 1904 to finalize the station, aiming for readiness by July 1, 1904. Later that year, winter storms damaged the oil engine hoisting apparatus and destroyed the engine house. Two small portable hoists were sent for replacement and a piping system was installed to provide compressed-air from the fog-signal building.

The first-class compressed-air automatic siren was operational for about 127 hours (excluding June), consuming around 254 gallons of oil in 1906.

In 1913, First Assistant Wilfred Monette and Second Assistant O.D. Holmes rescued the owner of the capsized dory, Maid of Orleans, and righted the dory.

In late 1915, the keeper became ill, and First Assistant William J. Pearson, Second Assistant William A. Phillips, and Substitute Keeper William Rosenberg cared for the late keeper during his illness. During his rescue by a Revenue Service cutter, the Coast Guard’s S.S. Manning landing boat capsized, drowning the keeper, a Public Health Service surgeon, and four men.

On December 25, 1914, a significant storm occurred (see LSB Mar 1915 for details).

1921

Keeper C.P. Mercer was awarded the efficiency flag.