​The Gastineau Channel Historical Society has been caring for the Sentinel Island Lighthouse since 1998. In 2006, official ownership of Sentinel Island and the lighthouse was transferred to the Society under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 2000. The lighthouse dates back to 1902 and is situated on 6.5 acre island. The site features an art deco lighthouse, carpenter shop, marine float, and tramway.  Additional history can be found at www.LighthouseFriends.com

The Society has been working to preserve, protect, and restore the lighthouse to its original glory. Volunteers willing to help are always appreciated. A variety of projects are on our list, and we’d welcome volunteers with skills in carpentry, steel and glass repairs, painting, and general maintenance such as landscape trimming.  Upon advanced request, the Society can arrange overnight stays at the lighthouse to enjoy the spectacular views of Favorite Passage, Lynn Canal, and the lighthouse.  In 2022 the Society partnered with a local tour company to offer exclusive visits to the lighthouse, a tour unique to Alaska. A portion of the tour fee supports the on-going preservation work at Sentinel Island.

Good news update ! Sentinel Island Lighthouse is shining bright again! The lighthouse has been fully repaired and painted by a team of lighthouse restoration experts, contracted this spring by our society.  Funded by various grants, private donations, fund-raising events, tour fees, and society funds, the lighthouse has been given a new look and extended life through the recent work, as well as from many volunteer contributions over all the years of our involvement with it.   Society President Gary Gillette said, ” “From the beginning of our involvement, we wanted to restore the historic buildings and share the history and place with locals and visitors,” Gillette added. “With the new paint job, the lighthouse is all dressed up to celebrate its 90th birthday.”  Read the following story about its long history