Light's Fort (September 1997)
Progress Report

Reports from Lebanon indicate that the restoration of Light's Fort is proceeding well.  Crews were observed hard at work this past month, hopefully inspiring new local interest and attention.

The following is extracted and edited from The Wisteria, the Friends of Light’s Fort Newsletter, Fall 1998.

A much-needed replacement of the fort roof is complete.  The old roof had been slowly deteriorating resulting in significant water seepage which was feared would permanently damage the structure.  The replacement is constructed of an attractive dark gray, metallic material, common to commercial structures.  It should serve well as a temporary roof until an historically correct replacement can be accomplished.  The Friends have been assured the new roof will last upwards of 20 years.

Lebanon contractor Harry D. Peters is supervising the restotation.  He has worked on other historically significant buildings and has become quite an enthusiastic supporter of Light's Fort.  Over its lifetime the fort has been used for many different purposes including apartment living in the southern portion.  These various uses all contributed to the numerous alterations that specifically changed the character of the both the interior and exterior of the building.  The goal is to carefully strip the building down to the bare structure and not remove or destroy anything of historical significance or authenticity.

Mr. Peter's work has included the removal of debris from the southern interior of the building including several tons of plaster, paneling, plumbing fixtures, wiring and assorted trash.  He has installed temporary plywood flooring on the ground level to allow access and limited use of the building.

The work has uncovered a two-story fireplace, previously hidden by plaster and paneling, and a stone archway connecting the southern wing of the building to the north end.  The removal of the upper level flooring (which was in poor condition and of no historic value) allows an upward view through three levels to the roof, which has a dramatic effect, and gives one an idea of how large the fort actually is.  The interior now looks and feels clean.  Those who remember the condition of the interior in recent years will be inspired by the change.

Another bit of progress is the restoration of limited electrical service to the building which allows use of electric lights during visits and permits use of power tools for various repair and restoration projects.

With advance notice, Light family members and Fort enthusiasts are happy to accommodate visits.  Please write to Friends of Light’s Fort, c/o of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lebanon or call Allen Light (717-272-2846) or Melanie Ann Beidler (717-865-0520).  A good time to visit is during the Light Family reunion when a tour is usually given.  The next reunion is scheduled for September 19, 1999.

The Friends gladly accept donations for the project and membership dues will provide members with copies of the newsletter.  A $150 donation will cover electrical expenses for a full year.

1998-99 Dues
Single Membership        $   12
Family Membership       $   20
Sustaining Membership  $ 150

Send your name, address, phone number and check to The Friends of Light’s Fort, c/o Historic Preservation Trust of Lebanon, P. O. Box 844, Lebanon, PA 17042.