Why do collectors get together in clubs?

Because we can!

As Ron so eloquently discoursed, there are many reasons for lighthouse collectors to gather, not the least being the real drama and romance of the actual towers. There is a place in each club for the specifics of HL information sharing, such as what is coming out and where can we find retired pieces, but I do not think that subject is substantial enough to dominate the meetings of any club for very long. Charitable fundraising is also important and lets us feel good about ourselves. But the real reason people get together is to enjoy themselves with like-minded people, passionate about real lighthouses as well as their resin statues.

I discovered years ago that collecting HL is a journey, not a pastime. What may start out being about statues turns into something about towers and buildings which may turn out to be something about traveling which may turn out to be something about people. This is not accidental; Bill Y. has always been more interested in the stories around lighthouses than the buildings themselves.

Club membership can also be such a journey. Even collectors who come the first time to find out info on retired pieces will hopefully return next meeting to see friends and plan lighthouse getaways.