Children's Memorial at the Edgartown Lighthouse
The Museum, as steward of the Edgartown Lighthouse, has created the Children's Memorial to memorialize children who have died. We believe it is the only one of its kind available for children of all ages everywhere. People from all over the world have embraced the Memorial and aided in its development. The lighthouse is a working lighthouse illuminating the darkness and the children in the Memorial every night. It seems very appropriate that the children's' memory shine forth with that beacon.
Families can have their child's name carved into a granite cobblestone and placed permanently into the foundation of the lighthouse. The blocks are laid parallel to the shoreline in a pattern echoing the rhythm of the waves, marked by compass points. It is the Museum's hope that the child's name will be seen in the context of eternity. If you would like to add a name to the Memorial, download a Children's Lighthouse Memorial form.
The 2012 Children's Memorial Ceremony of Remembrance will be held Saturday, September 15th at 1:00 pm at the Edgartown Lighthouse. All are welcome.
For a list of all the names currently honored by the Memorial, download the List of Names.
2011 Ceremony of Remembrance
The 10th Ceremony of Remembrance at the Edgartown Lighthouse Children's Memorial was held on September 10, 2011. Approximately 175 friends and family members were in attendance to share in words and music about the lighthouse and the children. Steve Nixon, Principal of the Martha's Vineyard Regional High School, presented two original songs one of which, ("Your Light Will Guide Me Home"), was written specifically for this occasion. The lyrics to both songs are now available here.
Your Light Will Guide Me Home
That's Me Without You
Read the Martha's Vineyard Times article about the 10th Anniversary for Edgartown Lighthouse Children's Memorial.