Heceta Lighthouse B&B

Father's Day Brunch

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:14:03 GMT

June 21st at Noon

Ever imagine the life of a lightkeeper living on a coastal bluff in the Pacific Northwest? Enjoy a locally sourced multi-course brunch at Heceta Head Lightstation in the Keeper's Home. Dine amongst historic photos and artifacts that demonstrate the lifestyle of those who kept the light 100 years ago in a remote rugged environment. Now a sophisticated B&B, the Keeper's Home offers an upscale 2 hour brunch sourced from the garden, farmers' markets, and local vendors. Reservations are required: 541-547-3696. $80/person. Recommended for children 10 and older.

Keeper's Comfort Package

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:26:13 GMT

Remember the Warmth of the Keeper's Home

Wrap yourself in the warm luxury of the Keeper’s Comfort Package, specially curated for guests of Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast. This comforting set includes:

Two premium robes, crafted from 100% Turkish organic cotton and embroidered with our elegant Heceta Bed & Breakfast logo — soft, breathable, and indulgently comfy.
One queen-size set of Jennifer Adams sheets in classic elegant white, known for their ultra-soft, smooth finish and timeless beauty.

Designed to capture the restful warmth and refined elegance of your stay, the Keeper’s Comfort Package lets you bring the serenity of Heceta Head Keeper's Home to your home. $525

Want just one or 2 robes without the sheets? Each embroidered robe is $129.

The elegant while queen sized sheet set on its own is $295.

Call 541-547-3696 or email keepers@hecetalighthouse.com to inquire.

May Things To Do

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 03:30:30 GMT

Local Happenings Near Heceta Head

Mother’s Day Brunch at Heceta Lighthouse sold out, so we opened seats on Thursday, May 28!

Call 541-547-3696 to book.

Website: https://www.hecetalighthouse.com

Perched above the crashing Pacific, this beloved annual brunch is officially sold out—and for good reason. Guests gather for a multi-course experience that feels equal parts coastal elegance and cozy celebration. With the garden refreshed and spring in full bloom, it’s basically Mother Nature co-hosting.

Florence Rhododendron Festival (May 15–17, 2026)

Website: https://visittheoregoncoast.com/events/directory/florence/

A coastal classic! Think vibrant rhody blooms, parades, carnival energy, and that small-town charm Florence does so well. It’s the kind of weekend where you grab a coffee, wander the festivities, and somehow end up staying all day.

Yachats Big Band Night (May 7, 2026)

Website: https://www.yachatsoregon.org/212/Event-Calendar

Kick off May with a little swing. This lively evening brings classic big band sounds to the coast—perfect for date night or just soaking in that nostalgic, toe-tapping energy after a day exploring tide pools.

Memorial Day Weekend on the Central Oregon Coast (May 23–25, 2026)

Website: https://www.visityachats.org/events

Memorial Day here isn’t just a weekend—it’s a whole vibe. Wildflowers are popping, the ocean is putting on a show, and our freshly updated garden is ready for guests to linger with a glass of wine. It’s the unofficial start of summer, coastal-style.

Brunch May 28

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 20:10:45 GMT

May 28, 2026 Brunch openings

Since Mother's Day Brunch sold out, we are opening some seats for the locally sourced multi-course brunch on Thursday, May 28th . Seating is at noon and lasts 1.5 hours, followed by a history talk. $80/person, which includes service charge for staff. Please call 541-547-3696 for reservations.

Mother's Day Brunch - May 10th SOLD OUT!

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 07:44:21 GMT

Celebrate all the women in your life! SOLD OUT!

Immersed in spring blooms among grand views of the Pacific Ocean, Siuslaw National Forest, and Heceta Head Lighthouse, enjoy a decadent locally sourced multi-course gourmet brunch at Heceta Lighthouse B&B. The seasonal menu is crafted by harvests of the local woods, ocean, farms, and garden. This unique upscale brunch will last 1.5-2 hours, followed by an optional history talk and visit to the Heceta Lighthouse Gift Shop. This is your chance to get an up close and personal view of this national gem without staying the night. Create lasting memories with friends new and old at communal tables set inside the historic Keeper's Home.

May 10, 2026: Doors open at 11:45am, service at noon sharp. Appropriate for children 10 and older. $80/person, includes service charge for staff. Seating is very limited, so reservations are required: 541-547-3696 .

Heceta Head During WWII

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:46:15 GMT

Written by Mary Nulty, historian of Heceta Head Lightstation

The attack on Pearl Harbor (Dec. 7, 1941) heightened the West Coast's alert for an invasion. Coast Guard Beach Patrol troops arrived in early 1943. Their job was to patrol the beaches with guard dogs from north of Florence and to Yachats. These dogs weren't "military-born." They were donated by American families through a program called Dogs for Defense. Imagine a family pet from a farm in the Willamette Valley or a suburban home in Portland suddenly being shipped to Heceta Head to become a silent, lethal sentry.

To keep the dogs on edge, men at the station who were not the handlers would "agitate" the dogs through the fence. They would taunt or startle them to ensure the dogs remained suspicious of all strangers.

Unlike police dogs today that bark to hold a suspect, Heceta's beach patrol dogs were often trained for silent alerts. In the foggy "dead zones" of the Oregon coast, a bark would give away the patrol's position to an enemy landing party. Instead, the dog would stiffen, raise its hackles, or nudge the handler to signal a presence.

Because these dogs were considered elite "equipment," they were treated with high priority. The Coast Guard built a specific cooking shack near the kennels solely to prepare the dogs' meals. While the 70 men ate in the mess hall (where the head keeper's house used to be), a dedicated trainer spent his days in this shack prepping specialized diets to keep the dogs in peak physical condition for the brutal 6-hour beach shifts.

Training also included getting the dogs used to their canvas booties. The jagged basalt rocks and barnacles around Heceta Head could shred a dog's paws in a single shift. The trainers had to drill the dogs to walk, run, and climb in this protective footwear without trying to chew it off.

Two barracks were built where the head keeper's house once stood, providing sleeping and dining quarters for 70 men. Head Keeper Cap and Ma Herman lived in the duplex's west side, while officers resided in the east side.

The yard remains empty, serving as a silent reminder of the two different homes that once occupied that spot.

New Birthday Package!

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 03:25:03 GMT

Your Birthday Celebrated at Heceta Head Lighthouse

We love birthdays! Celebrate at Heceta Head Lighthouse with a large 4 inch cupcake (chocolate or vanilla), a handwritten card with your personal message, and a mini floral arrangement staged in your room upon arrival. Plus, receive a $10 discount to the Heceta Lighthouse Gift Shop to be used the dates of your stay. $95

Must have 1 week's notice. Please contact us with cake flavor, preferred color(s), and message for the card. 541-547-3696

April Things To Do

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:16:35 GMT

Enjoy the Coast Like Locals Do...

Yachats Big Band Concert (April)

Date: April 2, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (First Thursday of the month)
Location: Yachats Commons, Yachats, OR
City Calendar: https://www.yachatsoregon.org/212/Event‑Calendar

Get ready to tap your toes and enjoy big band music by the sea! The Yachats Big Band Concert is a beloved monthly event held in the historic Yachats Commons multipurpose room. Each first Thursday, this local ensemble brings swing, jazz, and classic dance tunes spanning from the 1930s to more contemporary arrangements. This is a community‑friendly performance where warm beverages and light refreshments are often available, and a suggested donation ($5) helps support the band’s ongoing performances. Whether you love to dance or just want to enjoy a lively evening with the locals, this concert offers a delightful blend of rhythm and coastal charm.

Easter Brunch at Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast

Date: April 5, 2026
Time: Noon
Location: Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast
Link: https://www.hecetalighthouse.com/

Celebrate Easter Sunday with a delicious brunch at the historic Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast . Beginning at noon , this special springtime meal features seasonal and locally inspired dishes served in the Keeper’s Home dining room — a warm and scenic setting with views of the Pacific Ocean. After brunch, stroll the lighthouse grounds, take in the spring air at nearby beaches, or explore the trails around Heceta Head. This is a perfect way to mark the holiday while enjoying one of the most picturesque spots on the Oregon Coast.

Spring Bazaar at Florence Events Center

Date: April 4, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Florence Events Center, Florence, OR
Link: https://florencechamber.com/event/spring-bazaar/643/

Step into spring at the Spring Bazaar , a vibrant vendor market hosted at the Florence Events Center. This event showcases the talents of local artisans, makers, and small businesses — with handmade crafts, unique goods, specialty foods, home décor, jewelry, art, and more. Whether you’re browsing for souvenirs, gifts, or something special for yourself, the bazaar offers a festive, community‑oriented atmosphere perfect for a Saturday outing. Grab a coffee, wander the booths, and enjoy the creativity of the Coast’s makers!

Whale Watching – Oregon Coast (Including Heceta Lighthouse Area)

Season: Late March – May 2026
Area: Oregon Coast viewpoints (Florence, Yachats, Cape Perpetua trails, and headlands near Heceta)
Link: https://visittheoregoncoast.com/

Spring is prime time for gray whale watching along the Oregon Coast — including from overlooks near Heceta Lighthouse, Cape Perpetua, and the beaches around Florence and Yachats . Each year, thousands of gray whales make their long migration northward from late March through May , and many pass within a few miles of shore during this journey. Some popular avenues for spotting them include coastal trails, headlands, and designated lookout points; a pair of binoculars and a clear afternoon can offer spectacular views of spouts, flukes, and the rhythmic movement of these gentle giants. The migration is a highlight of spring on the Coast and can be enjoyed from land (often for free) or via charter boat expeditions.

Birthday and Anniversary Discount

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:02:55 GMT

10% Off Packages and Retail Items!

If you have a birthday or anniversary in March, celebrate along with the Heceta Head Lightstation, whose birthday is March 30th. You will recieve 10% off any Picnic, Package, or retail item when reserving a stay for March 2026. Use Promo code: BIRTHDAY

Valid along with any room booked for March 1-31, 2026.

541-547-3696

March Things to Do

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 08:09:09 GMT

Local Beauty Abounds at these Events....

March 2026 – Local Events (Florence & Yachats, OR)

1) Total Lunar Eclipse Viewing

Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Time: Starts ~8:44 AM (partial begins) with total phase ~11:04–12:02 PM PST
Learn More: https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/in/usa/oregon?iso=20260303
L o cation: Visible all across Oregon sky
Blurb: March kicks off with a rare total lunar eclipse , also called a “Blood Moon.” Visitors and stargazers staying at Heceta Lighthouse B&B can step outside and watch the Earth’s shadow creep across the moon — a beautiful celestial event with peak totality around midday. Clear skies offer a spectacular natural show for both adults and kids alike.

2) Florence Home & Garden Show – Florence Events Center

Dates: March 6 & 7, 2026
Fri: Noon – 6 PM | Sat: 10 AM – 6 PM
Florence Events Center, 715 Quince St., Florence
Blurb: Celebrate spring inspiration at this popular annual showcase of home and garden vendors. From gardening ideas to landscape displays and local products, the show brings together businesses and community members to celebrate creativity in home improvement, décor, and outdoor living. Perfect for guests who love DIY, gardening, or just leisurely browsing local craftsmanship. https://florencehomeshow.com/

3) Yachats Big Band Concert

Date: March 5, 2026
Time: Typically evening (check local calendar for exact schedule)
More Info: https://www.yachatsoregon.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=5516&month=1&year=2026&day=6&calType=0
Yachats (Commons/Community space)
Blurb: Kick off the month with live music! The Yachats Big Band concert brings classic big band tunes and dance-worthy rhythms to the central Oregon Coast. A wonderful cultural and social experience for visitors of all ages — enjoy lively music amid the cozy coastal town charm.

4) Spring Brunch at Heceta Head Lighthouse

Date: March 21
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Event Page: https://www.hecetalighthouse.com/spring-brunch
Heceta Lighthouse B&B
Blurb: Tulips are popping. Birds are singing. Bunnies are hopping. The air is fresh and the forest is vibrant with new growth.

We are celebrating spring with a brunch on the first weekend of Spring Break, March 21st at noon. Experience the locally sourced multi-course 1.5 hour long communal brunch in the Keeper's Home at Heceta Head Lighthouse. View the crashing waves and culinary garden from the dining room and parlors while making new friends. Discover spring's bounty with fresh creations from the B&B kitchen. After, hear the history of lightkeepers who lived and work on this beautiful, rugged coast. One seating at noon on Saturday, March 21st. Doors open at 11:45am. $80/person includes service charge for staff. Call 541-547-3696 for reservations.

Best suited for children 10 and older.

5) Yachats Arts & Crafts Fair

Dates: March 21–22, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM both days
Event Page: https://www.yachats.org/event/arts-crafts-fair/
Yachats Commons, Yachats OR
Blurb: A beloved spring tradition in Yachats, this Arts & Crafts Fair features a vibrant collection of local artisans showcasing handmade goods — from pottery and jewelry to textiles, woodcraft, and fine art. It’s a great opportunity for guests to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and meet the creators behind them.

Easter Brunch - April 5th

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 06:39:03 GMT

Easter Brunch at Heceta Head Lighthouse

Easter evokes images of bunnies and flowers and sunny spring days. At the B&B it also brings freshly harvested delights from the culinary garden, forest, sea, and local artisans. Please join us in the Keeper's Home for a 1.5 hour locally sourced multi-course brunch on Sunday, April 5th at noon. After, hear the history of lightkeepers who lived and work on this beautiful, rugged coast. While you are here, hike up to the lighthouse tower and overlook the mighty Pacific Ocean that holds so much life. One seating at noon on Easter, April 5th. Doors open at 11:45am. $80/person includes service charge for staff. Call 541-547-3696 for reservations.

Best suited for children 10 and older.

Spring Brunch - March 21st

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 06:21:34 GMT

Spring Brunch at Heceta Head Lighthouse

Tulips are popping. Birds are singing. Bunnies are hopping. The air is fresh and the forest is vibrant with new growth.

Best suited for children 10 and older.

Love at the Lighthouse

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 05:26:34 GMT

Love and Romance Every Day

Free Dessert and 2 Ports

When booking 2 consecutive nights for February 2026, receive a free shared dessert and 2 glasses of port. Not available February 13-15.

Requirements

Available Feb 1, 2026 - Feb 12, 2026
Available Feb 16, 2026 - Feb 28, 2026
Stay for at least 2 consecutive nights
Enter promo code LOVE

Yoga at the Lighthouse

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 06:42:10 GMT

New Yoga Mats!

Heceta Lighthouse B&B now has new yoga mats available for use. Enjoy your practice on the porch, beach, lawn, or in your room.

Winter and Spring Weddings at Heceta Head Lightstation

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:58:01 GMT

Catered Weddings are Discounted in the Winter and Spring

November - April is quiet on the Oregon Coast, yet it is even more stunning than the summer! Heceta Lighthouse B&B offers wedding ceremonies and catered receptions year round. Enjoy the intimate, warm, and cozy Keeper's Home at Heceta Head Lightstation with your closest loved ones. November - April catered events are available for 20 people or less. Ceremony only weddings can be hosted for up to 28 people.

This winter and spring, we are offering a discount of 50% off the site use time when booking a ceremony with a catered reception. This is valid for new bookings held between November 2025 and April 2026. For more details on wedding options, check out the CELEBRATIONS page and/or contact Misty at Celebrations@HecetaLightouse.com.

Return to the Light

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:57:37 GMT

Rewards for our Guests!

If the Heceta light has called to you, return to the light! Find more renewal and refill your bucket by returning to your Heceta Light.

Every year we offer a 15% discount for all guests returning November 1 - April 30th. This year, we are extending our gratitude by offering a 20% discount to guests who have stayed twice, and 30% discount to those who have stayed 3 times or more. Here are the details:

Offer is available to guests who have stayed overnight at Heceta Lighthouse B&B previously.

Offer is valid on new reservations made for November 2025 - April 2026.

Valid for room nights Sunday - Thursday. No holidays.

For guests who have stayed at least once before, use promo code ReturnGuest for a 15% off rooms.

For guests who have stayed at least twice before, use promo code ReturnGuest2 for a 20% discount on rooms, and a 20% off coupon upon arrival valid on food, beverages, and merchandise during your stay.

For guests who have stayed at least three times before, use promo code ReturnGuest3 for a 30% discount on rooms, and a 30% off coupon upon arrival valid on food, beverages, and merchandise during your stay. This requires a minimum 2 night consecutive stay in the same room.

Call 541-547-3696 to return to the light, or use the promo code online at www.hecetalighthouse.com.

Private Holiday Parties

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 17:02:14 GMT

Private Holiday Parties at Heceta Head Lightstation

Celebrate and show appreciation with your co-workers and friends at the elegant Heceta Lighthouse B&B. Private holiday parties are hosted in the Keeper's Home at Heceta Head Lightstation while it is fully decorated with holiday cheer. Enjoy Pacific Ocean and lighthouse views through the windows and covered front porch. Suggested party options:

1. Enjoy 3 hours with 4 bottles of Argyle Sparkling Wine and an artisan Oregon Cheese Tower appetizer. $1900

2. Enjoy 3 hours with an expanded bar, Oregon Cheese Tower, and passed appetizers. $2400 plus beverage minimum of $475

3. Enjoy 4 hours with an expanded bar, artisan Oregon Cheese Tower appetizer, plus a seated dinner. $3800 plus beverage minimum of $575

Expanded bar beverages are Argyle sparkling wine, a regional white and red wine, an assortment of Oregon microbrews, and flavored San Pellegrinos. Elevated beverage options are available.

Maximum occupancy is 20 guests.

** Add - on: Rent the whole house for the night (sleeps up to 15 people across 6 bedrooms). The 7 Course Breakfast is included for overnight guests. Extra people can come to breakfast for a per person price.

** Add - on: Additional site use time is $250/half hour and must be arranged in advance.

25% service charge for staff will be added to all catering and beverage services.

Another option:

4. The 7 Course Breakfast or Brunch with local coffee and hot tea. $80/person which includes the service charge. Mimosa service is available for $15/glass. Minimum 12 people, maximum 20.

Email celebrations@hecetalighthouse.com for date availability and any other questions.

Two Day – Stay and Play Itinerary

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 05:54:00 GMT

Two Day – Stay and Play Itinerary from Yachats to Florence, One of the most scenic stretches of the Oregon Coastline

Stay at Heceta Lighthouse B&B in one of their six, beautifully appointed guest rooms in the historic Keeper’s Home. Experience the local Wine and Cheese Social and the elegant 7 Course Breakfast each day, followed by a historic talk of what life as a lightkeeper was like.

Dine at ONA Restaurant & Lounge , just twenty minutes north of the Lightstation in the unique village of Yachats.

Hike Heceta Lightstation’s scenic trail up to the lighthouse, which is part of the Oregon Coast Trail . This magical walk offers breathtaking views never to be forgotten. Docents are staged at the lighthouse from 11am-2pm daily, weather and staffing permitting.

Inside Tip: Take the hike at sunset, or even better, B&B guests have access to the lighthouse tower viewing area after dark for an extra special experience.

Experience Sea Lion Caves , the largest sea cave in America! Take their eco-friendly elevator deep into the cave to view this spectacular site filled with native sea-life! Watch for whales from their viewing deck.

Inside Tip: Find the great photo opp inside the sea cave by taking the stairs to the hole in the rock framing Heceta Head Lighthouse.

Stroll Historic Old Town Florence along the Siuslaw River. Delve into the area history at the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum.

Enjoy the beaches by hunting for agates and shells, see exciting geological formations at Cape Perpetua (the highest point on the Oregon Coast), or ride a horse on the beach with a guide at Florence’s C&M Stables .

Inside Tip: Explore Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area by renting a sand board at Sand Master Park to surf the dunes or take a thrill ride on a guided dune buggy tour at either Sandland Adventures or Sand Dunes Frontier .

Indulge at an ocean front spa. Overleaf Lodge and Spa has a full-service spa on the third floor with views of the ocean from the hot tubs. Watch the waves crash and the sun set while releasing all stress.

We will see you on the Coast!

Become a Volunteer at Heceta Head

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 05:20:00 GMT

Join Our Volunteer Family and Experience the Joy of Sharing History

Are you passionate about people, fascinated by Oregon Coast history, and looking to make new friends? Do you need volunteer credit hours or valuable experience to enhance your resume? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

We are thrilled to invite you to become part of our dedicated volunteer family at Keepers of Heceta Head Lightstation. As a volunteer, you will play a vital role in preserving the rich history and enchanting beauty of this iconic landmark. Plus, there are some incredible perks awaiting you!

Are you captivated by the stories of the past?

As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to conduct tours of the Interpretive Center at the Keepers’ House, where you can immerse visitors in the fascinating history of Heceta Head Lightstation. Your passion for history will inspire and educate others, leaving a lasting impact on all who visit.

Make New Friends and Build Connections

Volunteering is not just about giving back; it’s also a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and expand your social circle. Joining our volunteer family will allow you to connect with people who share your love for history, heritage, and the stunning beauty of Heceta Head. Forge new friendships while making a difference together. Whether you’re a student looking to gain practical experience or an individual seeking to enhance your resume, volunteering at Keepers of Heceta Head Lightstation offers valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. We are happy to provide letters of recommendation and documentation of your volunteer hours, supporting your future endeavors.

Earn an Overnight Stay at the Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast

As an extra special incentive, volunteers who dedicate a significant amount of time and effort will have the chance to earn an overnight stay at the renowned Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast. Imagine experiencing the magic of this historic rotating light at night and waking up to breathtaking coastal views and In addition to conducting tours, volunteers also assist with special projects and celebrations throughout the year. From decorating the lighthouse for Christmas to organizing memorable events, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make a lasting impact on the Lightstation’s activities.

We Provide Training and Make It Fun

No prior experience is necessary to become a volunteer at Heceta Head Lightstation. We provide comprehensive training that equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct engaging tours and participate in various activities. Most importantly, we strive to make volunteering a fun and rewarding experience for all.

Join our passionate and enthusiastic volunteer family today! Simply reach out to us via email. Our volunteer coordinator can be reached at kelly@hecetalighthouse.com.

We can’t wait to welcome you into our community.

Honoring the K-9s that served at Heceta Head

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 03:09:00 GMT

Sunday, March 12th – National K9 Veterans Day at Heceta Head Lightstation,
11 AM to 2 PM.

Each year March 13th is set aside to honor the service and sacrifices of American military
working dogs. Join us at Heceta Head Lightstation on Sunday, March 12th from 11:00-
2:00 while we celebrate K-9s who have served. Senior Trooper Josh Wolcott and F&W
Conservation K-9 Buck will provide a demo and meet & greet. Meet some adoptable dogs
from the Oregon Coast Humane Society, take a guided tour of the Keepers House, Visit
with State Park Volunteers in the Lighthouse and learn all about natural features in area
from our Roving Rangers. Free cookies, and free treats for your K-9! The celebration will
take place at the Keepers House near the site of the WW II K9 kennels – along the scenic
walking trail that leads from the beach to the lighthouse tower.
The Coast Guard Beach Patrol was formed in 1942 in response to German sabotage
attempts in New York and Florida and the Japanese submarine bombardment of
California and Fort Stevens, Oregon. From early 1943 to July 1944, Heceta Head served
as a Beach Patrol station for the Coast Guard Dogs for Defense program.

The Coast Guard and Heceta

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 08:06:00 GMT

http://www.gocoastguad.com

WWII December 7, 1941, the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, put
residents along the Oregon coast in constant fear of attack. The Heceta
Head Coast Guard Beach Patrol troops began arriving in early 1943 and
provided an important link in a chain of coastal patrols.

As many as 75 coastguardsmen were stationed at Heceta.

Two barracks were erected where the head keepers house once stood to house
the enlisted men. One barracks was living quarters; the other a kitchen and
dining hall. Some married men lived with their wives in a house above Sea
Lion Cave while others at Sutton Cottages near Sutton Lake. The commanders
lived in the east half of the duplex.

Day and night, the soldiers with attack dogs patrolled the beaches and
headlands between north Florence and Yachats watching for Japanese landing
parties. A dozen dogs were kenneled in dog houses built below the duplex.
The former fenced chicken yard was used as a dog training area. Two dog
trainers had their own cooking shack to prepare the dogs’ meals.

Head Keeper, Cap and Ma Herman lived on the west side of the duplex and
served from 1925-1950.

An observation shack equipped with a radio was built on the hill
above the lighthouse and staffed around the clock watching for Japanese
submarines. The Coast Guard inventory sheet lists the cost of the lookout
as $75. Stanley Anderson, the cook stationed at Heceta during the war,
said, “the tower was little more than a small shelter that provided scant
protection for the unfortunate on duty.” To ensure no public access to the
area, an armed sentry house was built at the entrance to the driveway and
the highway.

Mary Nulty
Volunteer Historian / Curator / Docent
Heceta Lighthouse Interpretive Center at the Keeper’s House
Mary@HecetaLighthouse.com
541-999-8514

Whale Tail

Sat, 07 Aug 2021 00:32:00 GMT

I stopped up at the lightstation today to drop off the
interpretive table for Neil & Rebecca (USFS) to use on Friday.
As I exited the gift shop, there was a group of people sitting
on the picnic bench looking at their phones. Behind them, a huge
gray whale surfaced and blew. “Whale!” I exclaimed to the group.
They all stood up and were able to see several more blows before
we lost sight of the whale into the thick fog not far west of
the headland. I rushed up to the top where John & Candee (OSP)
were on duty. “Did you see the whale?” I asked, out of breath
after rushing up the steep headland trail in hopes of catching
sight of it. “Yes,” they both replied in unison, with John
adding, “We’ve had whales here all day yesterday and today
feeding and one was a mother with calf.”

We watched the whale for another 30 minutes or so, pointing it
out to visitors and sharing interesting facts about our Oregon
Coast gray whales until it moved west into the fog. I headed for
home, pulling out at Sea Lion Point to snap a photo of our
beautiful Heceta Head shrouded in fog with sun all around (see
photo). Another gray whale was just west off the point there
also feeding. I watched for another 30-45 minutes as it came up
often and took its time about diving. What a treat and so much
fun to point out to visitors and answer their “whale questions”
as they stopped at Sea Lion Point to take a lighthouse photo and
not at all expecting to be treated to the sight of a whale.

Hoping for more whales this weekend as visitors come to see us
on National Lighthouse Day, August 7.

KHHL ( Keeper’s of Heceta Head Lightstation ) Ranger Dina
August 4, 2021

The original wood floors….NOT

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 02:50:00 GMT

Last fall we had a major pipe break and flood the east side of the first floor and basement. The “original” wood floors in the east parlor and hallway were warped so badly, they needed to be replaced. We were very saddened by this until our amazing and thoughtful carpenters, who carefully pulled up piece by piece on 1-26-2021, discovered those were not the original wood flooring! They found the true original flooring underneath that oak layer, along with a few pieces of newspaper around the fireplace that lead us down a rabbit hole of research.

After careful inspection by our historian, Mary Nulty, and a little help from her friend, Sharon Waite of the Florence Siuslaw Pioneer Museum, they were able to locate the source of some of those clippings and determined they were from the 1930s. With that information, we knew that Ma and Cap Herman, 1st Assistant Fred Sargent, and 2nd Assistant Albert Johnson would have been in residence. Mary read the official Keeper’s logbooks, and there was no mention of any work done to the floors in the keepers’ residence.

She did find mention of a couple of assistants that arrived and left that were not in our records. They only stayed a very short time. A perfect example of how as we learn more, it leads to more questions!

-Were the newspapers from the Herman’s or one of the other keepers?
-Who did the work, when, and where did the thin flooring come from?

One day we would like to have the resources to unveil the true original flooring…maybe when we are able to put the back wings on and have the Keeper’s Home once again stand in it’s original footprint.

If you have any information on this matter, or love to do research like this, please contact our historian, Mary Nulty Mary@hecetalighthouse.com

Happy Birthday Howard Hansen!

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 03:38:00 GMT

Howard Lee Hansen
Born on January 4th , 1900 at Heceta Head Lighthouse, on the West side of the Assistant
Lightkeeper’s duplex to Olaf and Annie Hansen. A mid-wife from Florence often assisted with
the births in the Heceta area, but it is hard to know if Annie had medical attention for this
particular birth. A new year baby, the Heceta Lighthouse residents may have wondered if the
birth would take place before or after the turn of the new century.
Howard Lee Hansen was Ole’s firstborn son to carry on the Hansen name. For Annie, he was her
third boy. Annie Lizzie Martin Johnston was a widow who had previously been married and had
two sons in West Virginia. She had experienced the loss of her husband, a young toddler and
her mother and brother. Starting over in Oregon with Olaf Hansen, a Norwegian immigrant who
had a career in lighthouse keeping may have seemed like a new start. There is concrete
speculation that Annie was a “mail-order bride.”
When Annie agreed to move from West Virginia and marry Olaf Hansen in Washington during
1898, she brought one son, named Otho with her. Howard’s older half-brother Otho was 11
years old when he was born and the only child at that time that lived at Heceta Lighthouse
Station until Howard’s siblings came along.
One can imagine the pride Howard’s birth was for the parents. Next door on the east side of the
duplex lived Harold and Guenerva Saulsbury, who had been married for 15 years, but did not
have any children of their own. Chances are they paid a visit to the newborn baby, their new
little neighbor.
Howard took his first steps in the west parlor and grew up running around every inch of the
property and surrounding forest area, often barefoot. He attended school in a small community
school house with a hired teacher that was located near the open beach area of Cape Creek.
There was also a large garden located near the creek that the children would help tend. Howard
learned to hunt local wildlife and fish from the fresh waters of Cape Creek while contributing to
the self-sustaining family life at Heceta Lighthouse. Five sisters more sisters followed Howard
and the Hansen family created many happy memories together during his childhood.
In September of 1918, Howard registered for the draft of World War I. His occupation at age 18
lists Howard as a Fire Guard. He was described as medium height, medium build, dark blue eyes
and dark brown hair. There is no record that he was ever drafted into WWI.
Howard was mentored by his father and the many other lighthouse keepers at Heceta in the
first two decades of 1900 on the strict regimen of maintaining the beacon of light. Learning
these duties firsthand served him well as he was offered a First Lightkeeper’s position at
Tillamook Rock Lighthouse (aka Terrible Tilly) at age 19. He served at the isolated station for two
years along with other young light keepers Orlo Hayward, Raymond Bay and Walter Lawrence that
also had lived at Heceta with their light keeping families.
The July/August 2016 edition of the Lighthouse Digest chronicles the young men’s service at
Tillamook Rock, their boyish antics and obsession with new-fangled photography and film
development. Over 100 of their photos are preserved and cataloged in the Tillamook Bay
Lighthouse records. The 2016 article by Debra Baldwin can be viewed at
http://www.lighthousedigest.com/Digest/StoryPage.cfm?StoryKey=4526 .

In 1930, Howard Hansen was living in Tokeland, Washington, across the Willapa Bay from
where his parents were stationed as the head keepers at Willapa Bay Lighthouse. On December
27, 1930, Howard married Carla Louise Kraash McKeegan in Tokeland, North Cove, Washington.
From Caspar, Wyoming, Carla had previously been married and had a 2 year old son named
Donald, making Howard an instant stepfather. His occupation was listed as fisherman and he
was part of the deep sea crab fishing fleet in the small coastal community of Tokeland. Carla
was living with her parents when she met Howard. Together they had two more sons, Carl in
1931/32 and John Howard in 1934. They moved to Bandon, Oregon where Howard continued
his fishing career with Harry Olson, who he worked for previously in Tokeland. Sadly in 1936,
Carla would lose her young husband, as Howard Hansen unfortunately drown at sea in a
boating accident.
From the Coos County Obituary and Death Notices on August 7, 1936:
Howard Hansen, of Empire, was lost and Jessie Weinel of Marshfield, was rescued by the
Bandon U.S. Coast Guard crew under the command of Captain Raymond Wilson shortly after
5:09 a.m. Wednesday, when the crab-fishing gas boat Glenora capsized and went to pieces
while outward bound over the Coquille River bar.
Three fishing vessels were crossing at the time. The Sea Lion, operated by Stankavich Bros.
of Bandon, and the Eleene, owned by Harry Olson, of Tokeland, wash., were in the lead. The
third boat, also owned by Olson, was apparently making good headway when suddenly the tiller
chain shapped in two and the little craft was left helpless without a rudder. This happened,
according to Wienel, when the first minor breaker hit the boat. Immediately a heavier sea struck
and capsized the boat, throwing both men into the water.
Within three minutes from the time the man in the lookout station telephoned what he saw on
the bar to station headquarters, the crew had a power boat in the river, and it was less than 15
minutes from the time of the wreck until the coast guard had Weinel in their boat.
For several hours the coast guard boat, assisted by the Sea Lion and the Eleene, searched
the waters in the surrounding area for Hansen, but he wasn’t sighted at any time. There was a
strong ebb tide at the time and it is believed that the body was carried out to sea. Hansen was
about 30 years old. He had a wife and three little children at Empire. He came to Coos county
from North Cove, where he had followed deep crab fishing.– [Bandon] Western World.
Additional children born to Olaf and Annie Hansen at Heceta Head Lighthouse –
Thelma Mae was born a year after Howard on Nov. 12, 1901, also in the west duplex. On April
29, 1917, she was married at age 16 to local boy, Benjamin Lester Bunch (who was 22 years old)
at the Heceta Light Keepers home. They stayed married long enough to have one child
together, Ralph Lee. In January of 1920, Thelma is recorded as living at a logging camp and
working as a waitress in Wendling, Oregon; Ben is listed as living in a logging camp in Reedsport
working as a logger with his brother; and their son Ralph is listed as living in the Heceta area
with his grandparents (Andrew and Christina Bunch). Later that year, Thelma took her son
Ralph and moved to South Bend, located at Willapa Bay near her parents. She remarried in
1921 at age 19 to William Leber, a 33 year old local store owner who had recently had become
widowed and also had a 2 year old child. They went on to have 2 daughters together.
March 16, 1903 – Ellen Irene was also born at the west side of the Heceta Lighthouse keeper’s
assistant’s home. She lived there until age 17, when she moved with her family to Washington.
At age 19, she married Jesse Van Greenman (he was 38 years old) and they had three children
together. In 1936 she married Vanner Devine Stone and they had three children together.
October 4, 1904 – Lenora Gertrude – married Sorren Peterson, and died at the young age of 21
in 1925.
August 19, 1906 – (Mildred) Ida – she lived until 108 years old.
July 24, 1907 – Adell M. (who lived with her parents in Washington until their death). According
to her niece, Sally Malone, Adell had an accident in the main Lightkeepers home. When she was
about 3 years of age, she fell down the stairs leading to the basement and hit her head, causing
a serious head injury. Although she was high functioning, she never fully recovered and
struggled in school. In a letter home from one of the school teachers, she recalled a
disagreement with Mrs. Hansen regarding one of her daughters having trouble with reading
and writing. This was most likely the youngest girl, Adell, being maternally protected by Annie
Hansen. Adell never married and passed away in 1966. She is listed as being able to read and
write, but never employed.
In 1904, head keeper Joseph Dunsan left Heceta for another lightkeepers post and Olaf Hansen
was a natural fit for the captain’s position. The Hansen family moved next door to the main
house until their transfer in 1920. The 6 Hansen children were born, attended school and grew
up in the shadow of the Heceta Head Lighthouse. Many family memories were made by Otho
Johnston (who stayed home until age 20 and worked as a surveyor in the Heceta area) and his
little brother Howard and 5 younger sisters.
Interesting notes –
In May of 1900, the head light keeper Joseph Dunsan and his wife Eleanor lived in the large
home provided for the Head Lighthouse Keeper. Their two sons, Roy, 18 and Claude, 15 were
listed in the 1900 census as lodging with a neighboring farmer and going to school. Perhaps the
young men worked part-time for the farmer.
In 1910, Annie’s sister, Florence, mysteriously left her husband in West Virginia and came to
Oregon with her 5 year old daughter, Leona, moving into the main house with the Hansens. The
census record from May, 1910 reflects 4 adults and 8 children living in the home together.
Florence lists herself as married, although her husband back in West Virginia lists himself as a
widower at the same time.
In my research, I found that several of the young women (Thelma Bunch, Florence Deitz and
Carla McKeegan) listed themselves as widows on their second marriage certificates, although
that does not seem to be the case, as their husbands were still alive and living elsewhere. It
may have been common for women to claim widowhood in those times (before 1920) because
divorces were hard to obtain.
January 3, 2019 (updated January 1, 2021)
Jennifer H. Chaney
Main research was compiled from U.S. Census records, birth records, marriage certificates and
death certificates.

Two Day Stay and Play Itinerary

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 23:43:00 GMT

Posted by: Misty

Happy Birthday, Howard Hansen!

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 23:31:00 GMT

Posted by: Misty

Howard Hansen

Born on January 4th , 1900 at Heceta Head Lighthouse, on the West side of the Assistant Lightkeeper’s duplex to Olaf and Annie Hansen. A mid-wife from Florence often assisted with the births in the Heceta area, but it is hard to know if Annie had medical attention for this particular birth. A new year baby, the Heceta Lighthouse residents may have wondered if the birth would take place before or after the turn of the new century.

Howard Lee Hansen was Ole’s firstborn son to carry on the Hansen name. For Annie, he was her third boy. Annie Lizzie Martin Johnston was a widow who had previously been married and had two sons in West Virginia. She had experienced the loss of her husband, a young toddler and her mother and brother. Starting over in Oregon with Olaf Hansen, a Norwegian immigrant who had a career in lighthouse keeping may have seemed like a new start. There is concrete speculation that Annie was a “mail-order bride.”

When Annie agreed to move from West Virginia and marry Olaf Hansen in Washington during 1898, she brought one son, named Otho with her. Howard’s older half-brother Otho was 11 years old when he was born and the only child at that time that lived at Heceta Lighthouse Station until Howard’s siblings came along.

One can imagine the pride Howard’s birth was for the parents. Next door on the east side of the duplex lived Harold and Guenerva Saulsbury, who had been married for 15 years, but did not have any children of their own. Chances are they paid a visit to the newborn baby, their new little neighbor.

Howard probably took his first steps in the west parlor and grew up running around every inch of the property and surrounding forest area. He attended school in a small community school house with a hired teacher that was located near the open beach area of Cape Creek. There was also a large garden located near the creek that the children would help tend. Howard learned to hunt local wildlife and fish from the fresh waters of Cape Creek while contributing to the self-sustaining family life at Heceta Lighthouse.

In September of 1918, Howard registered for the draft of World War I. His occupation at age 18 lists Howard as a Fire Guard. He was described as medium height, medium build, dark blue eyes and dark brown hair. There is no record that he was ever drafted into WWI.

Howard was mentored by his father and the many other lighthouse keepers at Heceta in the first two decades of 1900 on the strict regimen of maintaining the beacon of light. Learning these duties firsthand served him well as he was offered a First Lightkeeper’s position at Tillamook Rock Lighthouse (aka Terrible Tilly) at age 19. He served at the isolated station for two years along with other young light keepers Orlo Hayward, Raymond Bay and Walter Lawrence that also had lived at Heceta with their light keeping families.

The July/August 2016 edition of the Lighthouse Digest chronicles the young men’s service at Tillamook Rock, their boyish antics and obsession with new-fangled photography and film development. Over 100 of their photos are preserved and cataloged in the Tillamook Bay Lighthouse records. The 2016 article by Debra Baldwin can be viewed at http://www.lighthousedigest.com/Digest/StoryPage.cfm?StoryKey=4526. Two photos were found of Howard horsing around in a photo with Bay and Hayward (Hansen is in the center) and Howard with his own Kodak folding camera.

From the Coos County Obituary and Death Notices on August 7, 1936:

Howard Hansen, of Empire, was lost and Jessie Weinel of Marshfield, was rescued by the Bandon U.S. Coast Guard crew under the command of Captain Raymond Wilson shortly after 5:09 a.m. Wednesday, when the crab-fishing gas boat Glenora capsized and went to pieces while outward bound over the Coquille River bar.
Three fishing vessels were crossing at the time. The Sea Lion, operated by Stankavich Bros. of Bandon, and the Eleene, owned by Harry Olson, of Tokeland, wash., were in the lead. The third boat, also owned by Olson, was apparently making good headway when suddenly the tiller chain shapped in two and the little craft was left helpless without a rudder. This happened, according to Wienel, when the first minor breaker hit the boat. Immediately a heavier sea struck and capsized the boat, throwing both men into the water.
Within three minutes from the time the man in the lookout station telephoned what he saw on the bar to station headquarters, the crew had a power boat in the river, and it was less than 15 minutes from the time of the wreck until the coast guard had Weinel in their boat.
For several hours the coast guard boat, assisted by the Sea Lion and the Eleene, searched the waters in the surrounding area for Hansen, but he wasn’t sighted at any time. There was a strong ebb tide at the time and it is believed that the body was carried out to sea. Hansen was about 30 years old. He had a wife and three little children at Empire. He came to Coos county from North Cove, where he had followed deep crab fishing.– [Bandon] Western World.

Additional children born to Olaf and Annie Hansen at Heceta Head Lighthouse –

Thelma Mae was born a year after Howard on Nov. 12, 1901, also in the west duplex. On April 29, 1917, she was married at age 16 to local boy, Benjamin Lester Bunch (who was 22 years old) at the Heceta Light Keepers home. They stayed married long enough to have one child together, Ralph Lee. In January of 1920, Thelma is recorded as living at a logging camp and working as a waitress in Wendling, Oregon; Ben is listed as living in a logging camp in Reedsport working as a logger with his brother; and their son Ralph is listed as living in the Heceta area with his grandparents (Andrew and Christina Bunch). Later that year, Thelma took her son Ralph and moved to South Bend, located at Willapa Bay near her parents. She remarried in 1921 at age 19 to William Leber, a 33 year old local store owner who had recently had become widowed and also had a 2 year old child. They went on to have 2 daughters together.

March 16, 1903 – Ellen Irene was also born at the west side of the Heceta Lighthouse keeper’s assistant’s home. She lived there until age 17, when she moved with her family to Washington. At age 19, she married Jesse Van Greenman (he was 38 years old) and they had three children together. In 1936 she married Vanner Devine Stone and they had three children together.

October 4, 1904 – Lenora Gertrude – married Sorren Peterson, and died at the young age of 21 in 1925.

August 19, 1906 – (Mildred) Ida – she lived until 108 years old.

July 24, 1907 – Adell M. (who lived with her parents in Washington until their death). She never married and passed away in 1966. She is listed as being able to read and write, but never employed.

In 1904, head keeper Joseph Dunsan left Heceta for another lightkeepers post and Olaf Hansen was a natural fit for the captain’s position. The Hansen family moved next door to the main house until their transfer in 1920. The 6 Hansen children were born, attended school and grew up in the shadow of the Heceta Head Lighthouse. Many family memories were made by Otho Johnston (who stayed home until age 20 and worked as a surveyor in the Heceta area) and his little brother Howard and 5 younger sisters.

Interesting notes –

In May of 1900, the head light keeper Joseph Dunsan and his wife Eleanor lived in the large home provided for the Head Lighthouse Keeper. Their two sons, Roy, 18 and Claude, 15 were listed in the 1900 census as lodging with a neighboring farmer and going to school. Perhaps the young men worked part-time for the farmer.

In 1910, Annie’s sister, Florence, mysteriously left her husband in West Virginia and came to Oregon with her 5 year old daughter, Leona and moved into the main house with the Hansens. The census record from May, 1910 reflects 4 adults and 8 children living in the home together. Florence lists herself as married, although her husband back in West Virginia lists himself as a widower at the same time.

In my research, I found that several of the young women (Thelma Bunch, Florence Deitz and Carla McKeegan) listed themselves as widows on their second marriage certificates, although that does not seem to be the case, as their husbands were still alive and living elsewhere. It may have been common for women to claim widowhood in those times (before 1920) because divorces were hard to obtain.

January 3, 2019

Jennifer H. Chaney

Main research was compiled from U.S. Census records, birth records, marriage certificates and death certificates.

Lighthouse Digest

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 23:28:00 GMT

Posted by: Misty

For over 27 years, Lighthouse Digest , has been researching, documenting, and reporting on lost lighthouse history. Much of what has been published would never have been told if they had not done it. They have published more rare photographs and written about more lighthouse keepers, especially those associated with lost and lesser known lighthouses, and other important lighthouse personnel, than anyone else in history. And over the years they have accumulated an amazing collection of old historic photos of lighthouse keepers and family members and their stories, many which have not yet been published in Lighthouse Digest.

Additionally, in the past months they have located thousands of photos of lighthouse life, as well as memories, mostly from private family collections, from all parts of the United States – photos that need to be seen and stories that need to be published and finally to be saved for future generations. But the expense to research, publish, and archive all of this far outweighs advertising and subscription revenues.

Lighthouse Digest is a small business with a small staff and several volunteers who are all extremely dedicated to saving lighthouse history for the future. Sadly, the subscriber base for Lighthouse Digest is dwindling as people are showing interest of lighthouses on social media for only their visual appeal. Please join the efforts to preserve the historical past as well.

Lighthouse Digest urgently needs help to continue with its mission to preserve lighthouse history and continue to publish the magazine for many years into the future.

One essential part of their overall mission is to create a new nonprofit called the Lighthouse History Research Institute but all of this will require a large financial infusion, which can only come from people who truly believe in what they are doing to save our national lighthouse heritage.

There are two choices: Let lighthouse history be lost or help save lighthouse history for future generations.

Please help! You can make a donation today by going to: www.LighthouseDigest.com/Donation

You can also mail a donation check to : Lighthouse Digest Research & Publication Fund

P.O. Box 250, East Machias, ME 04630

Thank you!

The Proposal Package

Sun, 21 Oct 2018 23:24:00 GMT

Posted by: Misty

Surprise your future fiance with a romantic proposal scene in your room. We will provide 2 bouquets of flowers, rose petals and LED candles all around the room, and we will set it up for you while you are out to dinner. This package can be customized. Flowers are for you to keep. Candles stay at the B&B. Requires at least 1 week notice. $350

Book your Romantic Room Now!

Ona Restaurant and Lounge Receives Recognition from The Register Guard

Wed, 22 Aug 2018 23:14:00 GMT

Posted by: Misty

Looks like we aren’t the only ones who think Ona has amazing food and beverages. The Register Guard, Eugene’s primary newspaper, features Ona Restaurant and Lounge in it’s latest release. Check out what they had to say!

If you would like to try it for your self, Ona Restaurant and Lounge in Yachats on the Central Oregon Coast is open February through October. Stop in for lunch or dinner as you are passing through while exploring the Coast, or as the perfect dinner when staying the night at Heceta Lighthouse B&B.

Meet Mary Nulty, our own History Detective

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 23:08:00 GMT

Posted by: Phi

Mary Nulty is about to go on a historic adventure. In June, she will be at the National Archives in Washington DC, in cooperation with the US Lighthouse Society, to study some very important Heceta Head documents.

“This will be the first time that a member of the Heceta Lighthouse Interpretive Center will have access to the actual log books of the lightkeepers of Heceta Head,” said Mary. “as well as files of general correspondence from the period. We expect our research will answer a lot of questions. We will be photographing what we find and bringing it back for further study and to share with the world.”

As a lead docent at Heceta Head, Mary has been dedicated to finding answers to the many questions about the lives and culture of the people that cared for our magnificent lighthouse on the Oregon Coast. Whether it is food, shoe repair, glass containers, or earth closets, Mary is determined to find the truth. In preparation for this year’s season, Mary has reorganized and expanded our photo exhibit, telling a more complete story of the facility in pictures.

“Mary is breathing new life into our interpretive program. Her passion for the history of Heceta is inspiring and I am constantly amazed with her organization and attention to the little details that make our history so unique,” said Michelle Korgan, owner of the Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast and co-sponsor of the Keeper’s House Interpretive Center along with the US Forestry Service. “We are so happy to help make this journey of discovery possible.”

Mary and her husband Frank grew up in Oklahoma far away from the Oregon coast. They lived throughout the south moving with the Air Force and then oil companies. Big changes happened when they left Dallas, Texas in 1992. They drove away in a 34’ Airstream trailer, with the goal of exploring the Pacific Northwest and volunteering for Oregon and Washington State Parks for seven years allowed them to explore.

In 1994 Heceta Lighthouse was turned over to Oregon State Parks and the two of them gave tours all by themselves to hundreds of park visitors. The next year Mary was hired to be seasonal park naturalist at Honeyman State Park just south of Florence. She was in charge of the campground programs which included nature study and crafts, Jr. Ranger programs, evening campfire programs at the amphitheater, sand dune hikes and kayak tours. Mary started the ever popular 4th of July campground park parade at Honeyman. In 2001, she was transferred to Heceta Lighthouse to train and monitor the volunteers giving tours. Daily she swept the stairs and dusted the lens. She designed a lighthouse booklet for kids, creating simple inexpensive displays all the while falling in love with Heceta Lightstation. She knew someday she wanted to volunteer at the Keepers House.

In May of 2017, now retired, Mary started volunteering in the Interpretive Center at the keeper’s house giving summer tours. Mary was hooked. With a love for the Heceta Lightstation history, photography and the stories that go with old photos, she began researching and updating the displays on the first floor of the Keepers House. Major changes in the Interpretive displays have been completed.

And this is not the end of the story. During the winter of 2017, while researching and organizing anything she could find on Heceta, Mary learned the Heceta Light Keeper’s original Log Books are archived at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. Don’t tell Mary she can’t do something because she will find a way. With airline tickets in hand, laptop and suitcase, she is prepared to go to D.C. and make copies of anything related to Heceta. Mary truly has a love for sharing the history of the lighthouse, to include stories from the people that lived, worked, and played at this magical place they called home.

Come for a visit

Come visit the beautiful Queen Anne style Keeper’s House and take a historical tour that includes the history of the house, from its construction in 1892 to the present day, as well as the lifestyles of some of the most famous (or infamous) inhabitants. Discover what it took to get the first lightkeepers to stay at Heceta, how the house was saved from demolition, what everyday life was like and what you can do to help keep the house alive as a historic site in your community!

Open Everyday from Memorial Day to Labor Day –

11am to 3pm
(except Wednesdays or days with special celebrations

Interested in becoming a Volunteer Docent? Click Here for more info

Best of Florence

Tue, 10 Apr 2018 23:01:00 GMT

Posted by: Misty

Heceta Lighthouse B&B won Best Bed and Breakfast and Best Event Venue/Wedding Planner in the Florence area!

We still have rooms available in April and May. Come check us out for yourself before the summer rush.

And we do have some dates available for a beautiful wedding on the Oregon Coast. Spectacular any time of year!

Call (541) 547-3696

The Oregon Coast: A Winter Odyssey

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 22:32:00 GMT

Posted by: Misty

Come visit Heceta Lighthouse B&B before winter is over. All rooms are available for a 1 night stay in the month of March.

The Ghost of Heceta Lighthouse B&B

Tue, 31 Oct 2017 22:23:00 GMT

Posted by: Misty

A great story in the Eugene Register Guard about our alleged resident ghost, “Rue”.

Latest Article

Wed, 07 Dec 2016 22:09:00 GMT

Posted by: Michelle Korgan

We are on the front page of Oregon Coast Today!

http://www.oregoncoasttoday.com/oct/coast-culture/20161206/this-ones-a-keeper