Name and Location

The Cape Spencer Light is an iconic lighthouse situated on the southeastern coast of Barren Island, within the Hoonah-Angoon Census Area in Alaska. Locally, it's often referred to as simply "Cape Spencer." Its precise location is recorded as -136.6403516° longitude and 58.1990165° latitude.

2. Construction and History

The Cape Spencer Light was constructed between 1923 and 1925, marking the beginning of a new era in maritime safety for the region. This beacon has been guiding mariners and serving as a vital aid to navigation for nearly a century.

3. Architecture and Materials

Unfortunately, information on the architectural style and construction materials used in building the Cape Spencer Light is not readily available.

4. Light and Navigation

The lighthouse's light characteristic is a fixed white beacon with a period of 10 seconds, emitting a beam that shines out to sea for a range of approximately 14 nautical miles (26 kilometers). The light remains an important aid to navigation, but its operation has transitioned from manual to automated.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and surrounding landscape by taking a guided boat tour or kayak excursion. However, please note that access to the lighthouse itself is restricted for safety reasons. The nearest airport is the Hoonah Airport (HNT), which receives regular flights from Juneau and other major Alaskan cities.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands sentinel at the edge of a rugged coastline, where the meeting of sea and sky creates an awe-inspiring panorama. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense forests, snow-capped mountains, and wildlife habitats teeming with marine life.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

Unfortunately, local folklore and unique anecdotes about the Cape Spencer Light are not readily available.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The managing authority responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the Cape Spencer Light is the U.S. Coast Guard. While information on any installed AIS or radar equipment is not readily available, it's likely that these modern navigation aids are in place to support the lighthouse's continued role as a vital aid to navigation.

9. Further Information

For mariners and chart enthusiasts, the Cape Spencer Light can be found referenced on nautical charts A-2, A-3, and A-4, which cover the waters surrounding Barren Island.