”Illuminating Adventures: Life as a Lightkeeper”

Welcome to Let's Get Writing with Kathryn Taylor, where she delights in bringing you the stories behind the stories.

In this episode, meet Barry Porter, a dedicated lightkeeper from Porterville, Newfoundland & Labrador, who spent 23 years watching over the island's northeast coast. Barry shares his journey from writing his diaries to publishing his book, Adventures of a Lightkeeper, with Flanker Press.

This fascinating memoir is filled with lively and daring tales. Barry reflects on the unique lifestyle of a lighthouse keeper, from overcoming isolation and the impact of automation to dealing with extreme weather and the camaraderie between lighthouse staff. Adding color to his narrative, Barry recounts amusing anecdotes, such as his Christmas tree escapade on Bacalhao Island and talks about the family-like bonds formed with fellow keepers and sailors.

Explore the untold adventures and challenges lightkeepers face and discover how Barry Porter transformed years of diary entries into a gripping account that sheds new light on an extraordinary career and lifestyle. His stories are entertaining memories and an essential documentation of a unique part of Newfoundland's history. Tune in to learn more about the man behind the memoir and the mesmerizing world of lightkeepers.