“Davis Palmer,” a name whispered among sailors. It reminds us of a tragedy linked to Finns Ledge. That name is synonymous with a maritime disaster. It also echoes through the lore surrounding Boston Light.
Finns Ledge is more than just a rocky underwater hazard. It is a place where the sea’s fury met human fate on a Christmas Day long ago. It is a silent witness to a chilling event.
Let’s journey back to December 25 1909. A five-masted schooner named Davis Palmer was heavily laden with coal. It sailed into a tremendous blizzard. Visibility was near zero. The wind howled like a banshee. The Davis Palmer struck Finns Ledge. It sank rapidly and claimed all souls on board. Wreckage soon washed ashore at Little Brewster Island. The island was home to Boston Light.
Levi B Clark was the keeper of Boston Light at that time. He surely heard the screams of the dying. He might have seen the wreckage appear. He could only watch helplessly as the storm raged.
The disaster of Davis Palmer serves as a grim reminder. Finns Ledge is dangerous. Boston Light stands vigilant. It warns ships away from the hidden danger.
Boston Light’s history is intertwined with such tales of peril and salvation. It has been a beacon of hope for centuries. The first lighthouse in America stood here since 1716.
Initially, a tax on vessels funded Boston Light. George Worthylake was the first keeper. He earned fifty pounds a year. Worthylake also worked as a harbor pilot.
Tragedy struck Worthylake’s family in 1718. He his wife and daughter drowned. Their boat capsized. They were returning to the island from Boston.
Benjamin Franklin penned a ballad about the incident. He titled it “Lighthouse Tragedy.” Young Franklin sold copies on Boston streets.
In 1719, John Hayes became the keeper. He requested a cannon for fog. It was supplied and served for 132 years. Passing ships fired cannons in fog. The keeper responded.
The lighthouse tower has been rebuilt and renovated many times. The British destroyed it during the Revolution. The current tower dates back to 1783. It was raised in height in 1856. It stands 89 feet tall.
Today, Boston Light still shines brightly. It uses a second-order Fresnel lens. It is visible for 27 miles.
Keepers of Boston Light have witnessed countless storms and rescues. They have maintained the vigil. They helped to ensure safe passage for ships. They serve as a vital part of maritime history.
As we reflect on Finns Ledge, let’s remember the human cost. The Davis Palmer disaster is not forgotten. The light continues to shine. It guides sailors away from harm. It reminds us of the power and the peril of the sea. It is a beacon of safety and a memorial to those lost.