The race against time to save the Gay Head Lighthouse is now the focus of a mini-documentary.
“The Light at the Edge of the Cliff” is a short documentary written, narrated and produced by Rebecca Taylor, a former television reporter who now serves as director of the broadcast journalism program at Siena College outside Albany, New York.
“I thought it was an important story to tell, about preserving a part of the past for future generations before it’s too late,” explains Taylor, who shot the short doc during visits to the island this summer.
Captivated by the island’s profound connection to the Gay Head Lighthouse, Taylor sought to chronicle the historical significance of the landmark. The documentary features archival photos courtesy of the Martha’s Vineyard Museum.
“The photographs really illustrated what a staple this landmark has been throughout the island’s history,” said Taylor, who expressed sincere gratitude to library assistant Bow Van Riper for his cooperation in obtaining archival materials.
Taylor plans to submit the project to various academic conferences and festivals. She is also exploring funding opportunities to return to the island this spring to create an extended version of the project featuring additional interviews.
Contact Rebecca Taylor at retaylor@siena.edu.