In recognition of the hard work of those training for the annual Alligator Lighthouse Swim, the History of Diving Museum in Islamorada will be celebrating the intended weekend of the race with a special lighthouse-themed event.
The annual swim out to Alligator Light was recently canceled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The museum events on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12 and 13, will allow participants to learn more about maritime and diving history related to these important landmarks.
The museum will host a special pop-up exhibit on the subject, along with a themed activity book, which includes coloring pages, activities and educational ties to the museum’s exhibits. Visitors can also check out lighthouse artifacts on display in the “Voices & Lights” exhibit, including a turnbuckle once used to tighten components of the Fowey Rocks Lighthouse that would loosen due to wind and waves.
Although most local lighthouses are no longer used for navigation, they now provide a unique habitat for marine life, which can be enjoyed by snorkelers, freedivers and scuba divers.
Friends of the Pool is the non-profit organization that organizes the swim. Their fundraising efforts help the local community by providing scholarships to students at Coral Shores High School and programming at the local pools. Friends of the Pool and other local sponsors continue to support events like this to create awareness of the local natural and cultural beauty.
More information is at divingmuseum.org or info@divingmuseum.org.
