More than 430 people gathered on Saturday, August 8 for Friends of Acadia’s 2026 Annual Benefit to celebrate and support Acadia National Park. A highlight of the event was raising more than $400,000 to help restore the historic Baker Island Lighthouse, one of Acadia’s most treasured maritime landmarks.

For nearly 200 years, the Baker Island Lighthouse has stood watch at the southwestern entrance to Frenchman Bay, guiding mariners through the waters surrounding the Cranberry Islands. Built by order of President John Quincy Adams in 1828 as the bay’s first light station, it remains an enduring symbol of Maine’s maritime heritage and the generations who lived and worked on this remote island.

Today, visitors to Acadia National Park can still experience the lighthouse and its surrounding historic landscape, but nearly two centuries of wind, salt air, storms, and exposure have taken a significant toll. The tower now requires urgent restoration to address cracking masonry, deteriorating exterior surfaces, and failing paint.

“For generations, Baker Island Lighthouse has stood as a symbol of safety, resilience, and connection,” said Eric Stiles, Friends of Acadia president and CEO. “We are grateful for the extraordinary outpouring of support we received from many generous donors who stepped forward to help ensure this beloved landmark remains part of Acadia’s landscape and story far into the future.”

Visitors to Baker Island walk the mowed pathway from shoreline toward the lighthouse. (Julia Walker Thomas/Friends of Acadia)

The view from the tower of Baker Island Lighthouse, looking west/northwest toward Islesford in the foreground and Mount Desert Island in background. (Rhiannon Johnston/Friends of Acadia)

A warm sunset glow is cast over the evergreens surrounding the Baker Island Lighthouse on Baker Island. (Rhiannon Johnston/Friends of Acadia)

Held at Gate House Farm in Northeast Harbor, the Benefit took place on the beautiful property of longtime Friends of Acadia supporter Rick Savage. Guests enjoyed a lively cocktail reception featuring an oyster bar from Sweat Peas, along with a silent auction showcasing original artwork by local artists, handcrafted jewelry, distinctive home goods, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

The evening continued with an elegant dinner prepared by Trillium Caterers, a spirited live auction, and dancing late into the evening with Sultans of Swing.

Led by Benefit Committee Chair Lesley Draper, the 2026 Benefit Committee devoted countless hours throughout the year to create an unforgettable evening of community, generosity, and support for Acadia National Park. Young Friends Chairs Lesea Berry, Sydney Francis, and Charlotte Chilton also played an instrumental role in welcoming and engaging the next generation of Acadia supporters, helping carry that spirit of stewardship and philanthropy forward.

“The energy under the tent was incredible,” said Jen Byer, Friends of Acadia special events manager. “Throughout the evening, there was a shared sense of excitement, generosity, and hope for Acadia’s future as friends and supporters came together to celebrate a place that means so much to so many. We are profoundly grateful to everyone who made this year’s Annual Benefit such a success. The funds raised, including the extraordinary support shown during the Paddle Raise to restore Baker Island Lighthouse, will help advance important work in Acadia National Park and ensure its enduring impact for generations to come.”

Friends of Acadia also extends its sincere thanks to Chilton Trust, the event’s lead sponsor for the past 13 years, for its steadfast commitment to Acadia. Special thanks as well to Interactive Brokers, the Patron Leadership Sponsor, and to Morgan Stanley, the Marquee Sponsor, for supporting Friends of Acadia’s 40th anniversary and helping advance the work that will sustain Acadia for generations to come.

“This event would not be possible,” Byer continued, “without the support of our sponsors, the extraordinary generosity of the Savage family who hosted us on their beautiful farm, and the many businesses, artists, craftspeople, and individuals who donated incredible auction items and volunteered their time to help Acadia National Park. Thank you to everyone in our community for your support of the park through this event and throughout the year.”

Friends of Acadia celebrated its 2026 Annual Benefit in Northeast Harbor. A Content Corner gave attendees the opportunity to learn more about the work being done throughout Acadia National Park. Attendees enjoyed dinner and participated in the live auction and the Baker Island Lighthouse Paddle Raise. The evening concluded with a performance by the Sultans of Swing. (Rhiannon Johnston/Friends of Acadia)

The 2026 Annual Benefit Silent Auction included work from local artists. (Rhiannon Johnston/Friends of Acadia)

Kate Petrie with Acadia National Park discusses programs in the park with Annual Benefit attendees. (Rhiannon Johnston/Friends of Acadia)

Friends of Acadia staff Sarah Curts and JoAnne Wood wait for guests at the check-in table at the Friends of Acadia Annual Benefit. (Julia Walker Thomas/Friends of Acadia)