During its 150th Year, Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Designated One of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places by the National Trust for Historic Preservation

HUDSON, NY – May 1, 2024 – The National Trust for Historic Preservation has designated the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse as one of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places, underscoring the urgency to protect and preserve this glorious structure during its 150th anniversary in 2024.

“The Hudson-Athens Lighthouse has stood tall in the middle of one of America’s great rivers for over a century. We hope that including this iconic beacon on the list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places will help keep it standing for generations to come. With more investment and support, the inspiring people working to keep the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse open will be able to protect this iconic landmark and restore the building to its full potential,” said Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Built in 1874 in the middle of the Hudson River between the City of Hudson and the Village of Athens, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse stands as a testament to the rich maritime history of the region and its pivotal role in guiding vessels during the westward expansion era through the Erie Canal. The lighthouse, with its distinctive architectural features, has served as a beacon of navigation and a symbol of resilience for 15 decades.

Despite its historical importance, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse faces imminent threats mostly due to unintended damage caused by enormous commercial vessels using the close-by navigation channel maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Engineering reports indicate that this erosion and other preservation challenges put the building at risk of collapse within three years if no action is taken.

This prompts its inclusion in the National Trust for Historic Preservation's list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places which aims to raise awareness and mobilize efforts to safeguard this cultural treasure for future generations.

"The designation by the National Trust for Historic Preservation is a call to action for us to come together and ensure the lighthouse’s continued existence so that it survives and thrives for future generations. As we commemorate its 150th anniversary of the lighthouse, we are committed to preserving this historic gem and unlocking its potential as a vibrant community space and educational resource. We are so grateful to the National Trust for Historic Preservation for this designation." said Kristin Gamble, President of the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society.

In celebration of the lighthouse's 150th anniversary, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society, in collaboration with local community stakeholders, envisions a future where the lighthouse becomes a dynamic hub for experiential education and community engagement. Plans include transforming the lighthouse into an interactive space that not only educates visitors about its storied past but also serves as a platform for community events and cultural activities.

The Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society invites the public to join the preservation efforts, volunteer, engage in fundraising activities, and participate in celebratory events scheduled throughout 2024. By working collaboratively, we can ensure that the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse remains a beacon of history, education, and community for generations to come.

For more information, please contact:

Kate Treacy
kate@halps.org
917.334.5153