Lighthouses–East Coast

Gay Head Lighthouse was built on Martha’s Vineyard in 1856. It had to be moved in May 2015 over a three-day period over a distance of 130 feet and at a cost of $3.5 million. The lighthouse reopened in August 2015 and is seen here  in an 1880’s photo. Click to enlarge.  

Block Island Lighthouse is located about 12 miles off the coast of Rhode Island. It was built in 1875 and stands 200 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, making it the highest lighthouse in New England. Originally it was 300 feet from the cliff’s edge but erosion brought it to within 55 feet. It took 10 … Continue reading »

New London Lighthouse is unique for several reasons. It is the oldest in Connecticut (1801) and tallest (89 feet). In addition, in 2013 it was one of five lighthouses in the country chosen to be on a Forever stamp. It is seen here in a photo dated 1905.

Stepping Stones Lighthouse in Long Island Sound NY was built in 1877 on top of 900 tons of stones that were barged in. It is only 49 feet high and has a twin brother–the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse-on the Hudson River. A move to collect $4 million to save the structure is underway. The first photo dates … Continue reading »