N1DT and K1VV plan to activate Palmer Island Lighthouse (ARLHS USA 578) under the call W1AA on Saturday, June 24, 2006 from 10:30 UTC (6:30 AM EST) until 18:00 UTC (2:00 PM EST).
“You all are the reason we activate these lights,” writes Robert “Whitey” Doherty, K1VV. “See you all on Saturday. Please be there.” The Palmer Island operation will preceed the annual ARRL Field Day event.
Whitey notes that he and Don will begin operations on 75 meters, above 3980 kHz. In the past, 3997 has been used. “On 40 phone, tune for us between the nets, most likely below 7270, down to 7225.” Whitey says they’ll also use 20 phone later in the morning above 14310, or 17 meters above 18150. “We will return to 40 phone about 1530 to 1600 UTC, about noon local time.”
Morse code operation will be conducted roughly on the half hour, on 7035, 10116, 14035 and 18080 kHz, plus or minus QRM.
“We will be posting our spots on the DX Summit. but we would appreciate any and all W1AA spots by the members.” He adds, “DX QSLs are via the W1 Bureau and stateside are via W1AA please with an SASE. A photo of the Palmer Island Lighthouse will be furnished.”
The Palmer Island Lighthouse was originally established in 1849. In 1941, the station was automated. It was deactivated in 1963, but relighted in 1999. The 24-foot structure is made of stone and maintained by the City of New Bedford. Although it is not open to the public except by sepecial arrangement, the lighthouse can be reached on foot at low tide via the hurricane wall in New Bedford Harbor.