The Burnt Island Light, built in 1821, is the second oldest surviving lighthouse in Maine. It operates a Living History Museum and was added to the National Register of Historic Places as Burnt Island Light Station on November 23, 1977.
Burnt Island is at the western entrance to Boothbay Harbor and visible from Ocean Point. The name came from the fact they burned the island vegetation so it would be clear for sheep grazing. In 1885 the keeper had pigs, chickens and cows in addition to sheep.
In March of 1821 funds were designated to build a light and the land was purchased soon after. A tower of granite rubble lined with brick was built along with a stone Keeper’s House. A system of whale oil lamps and reflectors was used. The stone Keeper’s House was replaced with a wood house in 1851 and is still there. At this time Fresnel lens were installed changing the lighting of the beacon.
Originally there was a fixed white light that was to attract ships to the harbor, not warn them of danger! In 1988 the light was blocked in a sector to the southwest to prevent it being 
seen by ships coming up the coast before clearing Cuckolds. A year later it was changed again. This time a fixed red with two white sectors were created to indicate safe passage on either side of Squirrel Island. This caused confusion with Ram Island Light which was built in 1883. Therefore, in 1901 the fixed light was replaced with a rotating beacon that had a lens on each face. The lens lasted until 1962 when it was replaced with an electric beacon. It was the last lighthouse in Maine to be converted from kerosene. The station was automated in 1988.
In 1988 the island and light station were transferred to State of Maine Department of Marine Resources. The buildings have been restored as closely as possible to the 1950’s condition. In 2003 a living history program was started.
A trip to this island is a “must do” during your stay at Ocean Point Inn. Call the Balmy 
Days at 207-633-2284 to find out the schedule of “The Novelty” and rates. It is a 2 1/2 trip with two hours on the island. Wonderful experience for all ages!
There is a very special book written by Robert McKay called “Percival the Lighthouse Mouse.” A great gift for young children, especially if they get to go to the island.