ELBOW REEF LIGHTHOUSE SOCIETY RELEASES NEW 2024 ORNAMENT

The Bahamas, November 29, 2024 – The Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society (ERLS) invites the public to experience a unique blend of Bahamian art and cultural preservation with their exclusive holiday ornament collection. Since its inception in 2020, this 10-year limited collection has, and will continue to play a vital role in funding the restoration and preservation of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse Lighthouse in Hope Town, Elbow Cay, Abaco, which is the only remaining hand-wound light station in the world!

Over the past four years, the Society has partnered with talented Bahamian artists to produce a new annual holiday ornament. These unique keepsakes capture beautiful  perspectives of Hope Town’s natural beauty and maritime history through the diverse expressions of each artist.

This year’s ornament features the artwork of local Abaconian artist, Samantha Sawyer who is presently pursuing a degree in painting at the Savannah College of Art & Design. Sawyer’s detailed design skills and vibrant color palette in the 2024 ornament are deeply influenced by her love for the Abacos. Her work reflects a profound affection for her home as she intricately weaves precious memories into her design. Sawyer states: “Growing up on Abaco, I have always held a special appreciation for the lighthouse—not only for its beauty and rich history but also for the resilience and hope it has come to symbolize for so many of us.”

The ornaments will be available for sale at Doongalik by November 23, and will also be available at the ERLS booth at the Bahamas National Trust’s Jollification event.

“It is an honour to promote and sell these fundraising ornaments each year,” states Pam. “As the proud granddaughter of lighthouse keeper, Erskine Jones, who worked at the Elbow Reef Lighthouse where two of my uncles were born, I am committed to working along with ERLS for the preservation of the lighthouse in order to safeguard its history for future generations.”