Scott and Karen have been living on Goat Island as caretakers of the lighthouse and property from May through December since 1993. Goat Island Lighthouse was acquired by the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust in 1993, and not only serves an important and essential navigational role, but also as a central part of the Trust itself, available for island exploration year-round and open to the public seasonally with light tower access.

Over the years, the Dombrowski’s have participated in 29 rescues at sea, with everything from a plane crash, boats on the rocks, boats on fire, and having to pilot lost mariners in the fog to a safe harbor mooring, to people kayaking who have capsized or lost a companion in the surf. There have been many lives saved because of Dombrowski’s presence and assistance on the island. There have also been several painful losses that have taken place in the vicinity, where they helped with the search and recovery efforts.

The hard work and rescue missions certainly stand out to the Dombrowski’s, yet their collective experience on the island has been nothing short of a spiritual journey. “Goat Island from day one had an incredibly special karma and feel to it,” said Scott. “Every time we left the mainland, it felt as though we were leaving the weight and problems with life ashore. It is amazing really, a special blend in time where the creation of the unique lifestyle of yester-year is combined with modern nuances,”

“Sharing this island over the years, offering opportunities and experiences for people of all ages to learn and enjoy, has been very rewarding for us,” said Karen. “We’ve hosted Discovery Days for children and adults, field trips designed for students, scouts and countless other groups. Flying Santa visits to Goat Island were memories that I will never forget.” “Illuminating the lighthouse for the Fourth of July and at Christmastime, were always special occasions.” Scott added. “Living here has taught us how to work hard, share this precious resource with as many as we could and to be very respectful of Mother Nature, having observed her fury many times over. It taught us how to communicate with the community and the press, give our children a strong work ethic and a respect for conservation of land and sea. We grew to have an acute appreciation for how dynamic the island environments are and how Mother Nature takes care of and repairs her land and seascapes.”

Knowing they couldn’t be lighthouse keepers forever, three years ago the Dombrowski’s spearheaded an apprentice lighthouse keeper program, teaching nine local families how to care for the property. “Whether it will be one head keeper’s family or shared responsibility is all being actively discussed,” Scott said.

The Dombrowski’s said they are proud of what they have accomplished and what they have been a part of preserving for future residents of our community and visitors to enjoy. Passing on what they have learned to another generation is also a rewarding experience. Karen concluded “The most important part of our job is to share the rich history with anyone who wants to learn about it and experience it. This place belongs to all of us, and that is why we are here. There has to be someone on the island to keep it safe and cared for, and to share it with anyone who comes out. This island has been our life, our love, our passion, and our mission to share, and we hope it stays open and welcoming for all to experience it forever.”

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Retirement of Scott and Karen