Sent in by our pal Monkeyfist at Casco Bay Boaters–
http://nelights.blogspot.com/2010/02/maria-bray-heroine-of-thacher-island.html
Alexander Bray became the principal keeper of the twin light station at Thacher Island, off Rockport, Massacusetts, in 1864. Bray—a Civil War veteran—and his wife, Maria (Herrick), were both descended from old Gloucester families. Bray had been an assistant keeper since 1861.
Maria Bray was described as a woman of unusual literary abilities. She contributed articles to the local newspapers and wrote short stories, and for a time she served as the editor of a literary magazine called Magnolia Leaves. During her time on Thacher Island, Maria developed an interest in the classification of marine plant life. She assembled an important collection of sea mosses and algae, and became a recognized authority on the subject. She also learned to perform all the light-keeping duties of her husband.
for the whole story click the link at the top of the page
Good Morning Gloucester 
very interesting!
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Glad to see the photograph of Maria Bray and the continued interest in her.
Years ago, I started to research the rich history that keeps this wonderful woman interesting to the general public.
I am hoping to connect with more people who can assist me to learn more of her literary background, collections and social efforts.
I have a signed copy of “The Isles of Shoals” by Celia Thaxter that Maria Bray owned and signed. I hold it with great value.
I intend to do a parallel/comparison of the lives of Celia Thaxter and Maria Bray. They were two exceptional woman of their time.
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