Name and Location

The Pond Island Light is a historic lighthouse located in Phippsburg, Maine, United States. Situated on Pond Island, a small islet approximately 1 mile off the coast of Phippsburg, it is part of the larger Casco Bay region.

Construction and History

Built in 1859, the Pond Island Light is a testament to the region's rich maritime history. It was constructed during a time when the Gulf of Maine was experiencing significant maritime traffic and shipwrecks. The lighthouse has been guiding mariners through the treacherous waters for over a century.

Architecture and Materials

The Pond Island Light is a classic example of a mid-19th century lighthouse, featuring a cylindrical tower made of granite construction with a distinctive red lantern room at its summit. Standing 60 feet tall, the lighthouse's focal height is approximately 100 feet above sea level.

Light and Navigation

During its operational years, the Pond Island Light displayed a fixed white light with a range of approximately 15 miles. The exact pattern of the light is unknown, but it is believed to have been a simple flashing or steady beam.

Accessibility and Visiting

While no longer an active aid to navigation, the Pond Island Light has been converted into a private residence. Visitors can access the surrounding area and enjoy the scenic views of the Gulf of Maine, but the interior of the lighthouse is not open to the public due to its private ownership.

Notable Views and Landscape

From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Maine, including the surrounding islands and the rugged coastline. The surrounding area offers picturesque coastal scenery, with nearby beaches and forests to explore.

Anecdotes and Folklore

The Pond Island Light has been home to many dedicated keepers who worked tirelessly to ensure safe navigation through the treacherous waters. Their stories are an important part of the lighthouse's rich history and cultural heritage. One notable event associated with the lighthouse is the tragic shipwreck of the SS Andrea Doria in 1956, which resulted in the loss of over 400 lives.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was automated in the 1980s, bringing an end to the era of manual operation by keepers. The coordinates for the Pond Island Light are 43.7400269° N, -69.7703322° W.

Further Information

For more information on visiting the Pond Island Light or nearby attractions, please contact [Local Tourism Authority]. For a taste of coastal Maine's rich history and culture, visit the Phippsburg Museum, which showcases the region's maritime heritage.