Bald Head Island, N.C.- Old Baldy- the lighthouse on Bald Head Island- is about to get a massive facelift.
After Hurricane Florence nailed the east coast in 2018 the National Park Service set aside more than $47 million for historical locations damaged by the storm. The North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office was awarded $9,172,500. They are going to use those funds to fix 22 landmarks in 18 counties. Old Baldy will receive a total of $750,000.
The repairs will include interior masonry and exterior stucco repairs, replacing a historic railing, and conducting an archaeological study around the base of the lighthouse.
The work is expected to begin on Oct. 1, and is expected to be be finished in April 2024. On some days the lighthouse will be closed to the public while the work is underway. Those planning to visit the lighthouse during this time period should call or check social media before heading off to the island.
Two other projects in the Wilmington area received funding through federal grant, including $219,735 to the Bellamy Mansion in Wilmington and $748,150 to Shelter Neck Industrial School.
