N1DT and K1VV plan to activate Butler Flats Lighthouse (ARLHS USA 099) under the call W1AA on Saturday, July 1, 2006 from 10:30 UTC (6:30 AM EST) until 18:00 UTC (2:00 PM EST).
“Conditions have been less than ideal. If you do not hear us on a posted frequency, hang in there–the bands are ever changing,” writes Robert “Whitey” Doherty, K1VV. “See you all on Saturday. Please be there.”
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 Butler Flats Lighthouse will be furnished.”
Located in New Bedford at the mouth of the Acushnet River, Butler Flats Lighthouse can be seen from the shore along East Rodney French Boulevard, and from the ferries leaving New Bedford for Martha’s Vineyard and Cuttyhunk. The station was established in 1898. The current lighthouse tower was built in 1898 and automated in 1978. The brick and cast iron structure is 53 feet high, and features a white light that flashes every four seconds.
[See also: Amateur Radio Lighthouse Society]