Celebrating 150 Years: The Point Fermin Lighthouse Through the Eyes of Martha Austin McKinzie

By Melani Morose Edelstein

In the heart of San Pedro, the Point Fermin Lighthouse stands as a testament to a bygone era, its light a beacon for sailors and the rich history and heritage it preserves. As the lighthouse celebrates its 150th anniversary this summer, I had the distinct pleasure of touring this historic site with Martha Austin McKinzie, the president of the Point Fermin Lighthouse Society. McKinzie, whose ties to the lighthouse run deep, shared captivating stories and lesser-known facts about this beloved landmark.

Martha Austin McKinzie’s connection to the Point Fermin Lighthouse is both profound and personal. Raised in San Pedro, she comes from a long line of lighthouse keepers, including her relatives Juanita and Thelma, who were keepers in 1917. “This lighthouse is extraordinary in a lot of ways,” McKinzie remarked, her eyes alight with passion. “We need to keep it alive and keep telling stories and keep remembering.”

While chatting amiably on a bench in front of the historic lighthouse, McKinzie shared an intriguing piece of history that many in the community might not know. “This is a jewel, a true historic living museum, and we want to keep it open. Think about this: 20 years before the Battle of Bighorn, two women were single-handedly running this lighthouse. In 1874, the women were in charge,” she points out.

The Austin family, who settled into the lighthouse in 1917, infused it with vibrant life, thanks to their seven children. “After William and Martha Austin’s passing in 1925, their daughter Thelma, assisted by her sister Juanita, assumed the role of keeper,” McKinzie told me. “This lighthouse has been intertwined with our family for generations.”

The sisters lit the flame as keepers for nearly eight years, an impressive feat given the isolation and challenges of the time. “They gave up the lonely occupation because there were no other settlers nearer than Wilmington,” McKinzie said.

Following the Smith sisters, Captain George Shaw took over in 1882. A retired sea captain, Shaw relished the opportunity to remain close to the ocean. His tenure saw the introduction of the U.S. Lighthouse Service uniform, which he proudly wore and which is on display in the lighthouse.

Speaking enthusiastically, McKinzie described the lives of several subsequent keepers, including Irby Engels, who became the keeper in 1906 and was known for his annual Fourth of July celebrations. This wonderful, rare day off at the lighthouse was marked with picnics and family gatherings, much like modern-day celebrations.

The lighthouse has seen many changes over the years. Built in 1874 with lumber from California redwoods and a Fresnel Lens brought around Cape Horn by sailing ships, it was a palatial structure in its heyday, crowned with a cupola fitted with a 2,100-candlepower light. “For its time, this Victorian lighthouse was quite grand,” McKinzie said.

The lighthouse also witnessed technological advancements. In 1898, a petroleum vapor incandescent lamp was installed, and in 1925, a new 6,600 candlepower electric light projected a beam 22 miles out to sea. During World War II, all coastal lights were extinguished to protect against enemy attacks. The structure fell into disuse and disrepair until volunteers restored it for the centennial celebration in 1974.

Today, Point Fermin Lighthouse is one of San Pedro’s most recognized landmarks and was used for the San Pedro Centennial logo. This graceful Victorian-style building, surrounded by colorful flower gardens, is one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast. It was built to aid safe passage between the Channel Islands and into the harbor, a role it has played for 150 years.

As we concluded our time together, McKinzie shared a personal reflection. “This is our life,” she said. “Juanita and Thelma took over when their parents died. My mother, Martha, had ten kids, and eight lived. This lighthouse has always been a part of our family. We want to keep it alive for future generations.” As the president of the Point Fermin Lighthouse Society, this is something McKenzie is committed to

The Point Fermin Lighthouse is more than just a historic building; it is a living museum and a symbol of the dedication and resilience of its keepers, particularly the women who have played such a vital role in its history. The Point Fermin Lighthouse stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its keepers and the community that has cherished it for a century and a half. 

As it celebrates its 150th anniversary, the lighthouse remains a beacon of history, guiding us through the past and into the future. The Point Fermin Lighthouse 150-Year Celebration in the Park takes place Aug. 17, 2024

The Point Fermin Lighthouse, built in 1874, illuminated the entrance to Los Angeles Harbor for 67 years before being darkened during WWII. Restored for its centennial in 1974 and opened to the public in 2002, it has since welcomed thousands of visitors. 

The lighthouse is open Tuesday through Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. and closed on Mondays. 

General admission is free, but donations are appreciated. For more information, call (310) 241-0684.