Over 400 women served as lighthouse keepers in the United States. Women served heroically alongside their husbands and others served immediately after the deaths of their husbands. Some declined an appointment as light keeper after the death of their spouses.
Ann Taylor whose husband, William Taylor, died requested to be relieved as light keeper of Cape St. George. Anne’s spouse was the official light keeper July 11, 1849-November 1850.
A letter dated July 27, 1850 forwarded to me by Author and Historian, James Hargrove describes her plight. It was written from the HW Taylor, Customs House of Apalachicola:
“Sir
Mrs. Ann H. Taylor widow of the late WJ Taylor keeper of Cape St. George Light and who since the death of her husband has retained the situation as keeper has dignified her wish to be relieved by appointment of other person. At the suggestion of W Hawky who is now absent and whose return is uncertain. I have sent down Edmond Austin to take charge and it is Mr. Hawky’s request that he be accepted as keeper from 1st August when Mrs. Taylor proposes to leave.
I would beg leave however to suggest that his appointment be suspended for a short period at least as I have been informed that Mr. Austin does not contemplate moving his family down to the Lt house but will rely upon the assistance of someone who employed by him in order that he may still carry on his business in Town, I will endeavor to inform myself on the subject and advise you.
Mr. Hawky before he left placed in my hand memorandum of his inspection of the several Lt Houses from which I am to furnish an estimation of amount required for repairs which will not be delayed longer than necessary to arrange specifications.The largest appropriation will be as requested for Dog Island Light. The keepers house being as much out of repair and the Lt House Tower is from decay of the timber near the surface of the earth very insecure in case of a gale.
I am Sir Respectfully.
HW Taylor
Deputy Collections
August 12, 1850 “