Lighthouses are by nature historical structures. Standing watch over America's shores, their stories mark not only the passing of ships, but also the passage of time.

For any person who has ever gazed at a tower's steady light, visited one of their spectacular coastal locations, or admired the grace of their classic structures, lighthouses provide treasured memories—and windows to our past.

Historic American Lighthouses: A Collector's Edition features six classic and collectible lighthouse models from across America—each one representative of a certain regional history. The book is illustrated extensively with evocative color photographs of American lighthouses from coast to coast; it tells the stories of the six lighthouses and many others, revealing the connections between lighthouse history and America's maritime heritage.

The six lighthouse miniatures in this collection were designed by sculptor and graphic designer Susan Hernday. Ms. Hernday, who has a background in museum exhibit design, has also illustrated and sculpted models for a series of educational kits. She lives in Washington State.