Cape Cod is a destination for visitors drawn to our iconic lighthouses. Many imagine the romantic life of a lighthouse keeper — watching the sea, guiding ships, and living on the edge of the coast. But in the 19th and early 20th century United States, this profession was almost entirely closed to women.

For most, the only path to becoming a keeper came through loss — stepping into the role after the death of a father or husband. Here on Cape Cod, five remarkable women did exactly that. They took on the responsibility of tending the light, maintaining the stations, and safeguarding mariners, earning admiration and respect for their dedication, resilience, and skill.

Sam Notick, Collections and Exhibits Manager at the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, will share the stories of these trailblazing women who kept the lights shining on Cape Cod.

Part of our History on Tap series—join us for an evening of local history, conversation, and craft brews.

Admission: $10 per person / $5 for members

Must be 21+ to sample beer; IDs will be checked at the door.

Enjoy craft beer from our sponsor, Cape Cod Beer, along with cheese, crackers, water, and non-alcoholic beer options.

We highly recommend reserving your tickets on our website in advance. Popular events often sell out quickly, and we cannot always accommodate walk-ins. Don’t miss out—plan and secure your spot!

Please Note: History on Tap features a different speaker every two weeks. Be sure to double-check the date before booking your ticket to ensure you’re registering for the lecture you want. If you have any issues, call Samantha Stickney at 508-815-4149 to book directly.