Handwritten letter from 1903 discovered in Tasmanian lighthouse

A handwritten letter dating back to 1903 was found inside Cape Bruny Lighthouse.

Historic letter found hidden in Tasmanian lighthouse wall

A letter dated 29 January 1903 was found hidden inside the Cape Bruny Lighthouse in Tasmania by a painter during restoration work. The bottle contained a two-page handwritten note from James Robert Meech, then Inspector of Lighthouses for the Hobart Marine Board. The letter describes significant improvements made to the lighthouse, including a new iron staircase and changes to the flash sequence of the light. It also includes the names of the workers involved in the project. The letter was carefully opened by conservators, and they noted its remarkable condition. It offers a valuable glimpse into Tasmania's maritime history, having remained sealed for over a century.

The discovery of this letter is more than an exciting find; it serves as a reminder of the lasting legacy of maritime history in Tasmania. As lighthouses played crucial roles in ensuring the safety of seafarers, such narratives enhance our understanding of local heritage. The efforts by conservationists to preserve this message reveal the importance of connecting with our past. For historians and enthusiasts alike, this letter stands as a tangible link to early 20th-century maritime life, capturing details about the lighthouse's evolution and the people behind these essential upgrades.

Highlights

Such finds not only inform us of the past but also inspire future conservation efforts.