This year has refined my definition of peace. It has been pretty chaotic. So many unexpected things have happened in the short span of this year. It is challenging to see God’s bigger plan in the midst of chaos.
Female light keepers envisioned life as bigger than themselves and their circumstances. Many became light keepers after the death of their husbands. They sought a better life not only for themselves and their children, but also for their communities.
Margaret Norvell lived to serve others. She became the official light keeper of the Port Pontchartrain Lighthouse in Louisiana in 1896.
During one storm, she threw a rope for the crews of both a yacht and a schooner.
Norvell provided them with food and shelter for several days. After every hurricane, her lighthouse was a refuge for fishermen and others who lost their homes.
In 1903 when the lighthouse was the only building standing, over 200 people found shelter in Norvell’s home. After each storm she started the relief funds and helped people get back on their feet.
In 1925, Norvell helped evacuate 200 from the ferry boat Southland.
Margaret Norvell served nearly 41 years as a keeper. In 2013, her generosity, courage and faithful service were honored when the US Coast Guard commissioned a Sentinel Class Cutter in her name. The motto of the cutter summarizes her life and legacy. ”True Steady Unfailing.”
Voices of Lighthouses 