Alabama Historical Commission - Middle Bay Lighthouse

Amateur Radio Enthusiasts (HAM) Bring International Attention to Alabama Lighthouses

Across the US and in many foreign countries, amateur radio clubs (commonly known as “HAM”s) hold weekend events transmitting from lighthouses. The October 2012 Lighthouse Weekend was a first for Alabama.

Huntsville Amateur Radio Club member Warren Alford was inspired to organize a similar event for the lighthouses of Mobile Bay. “We want to increase awareness of the rich history and help our partners, the Alabama Lighthouse Association and the Alabama Historical Commission, raise funds for continued preservation of each lighthouse,” said Alford.

Huntsville HAM clubs operated stations at Middle Bay (a Historical Commission property), Sand Island, and Fort Morgan's Mobile Point Lighthouses. HAMs from across the world could “call in” and talk to the volunteers manning each station.

Two stations are setup at Fort Morgan, also owned and maintained by the the Commission. Mobile Point Lighthouse is situated on the Fort. The HAMS located Sand Island hand radio station on the fort too since “we can clearly see the lighthouse from the fort,” said Alford

5.04.10 - Middle Bay Lighthouse update

2.20.10 - Inspection finds the lighthouse structure

is about 90 percent original. View video

12.2.09 - AHC votes to keep Middle Bay Lighthouse in bay

6.23.09 - Summary and History

6.10.09 - AHC Statement on Middle Bay Lighthouse