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Cape Ann Light (Twin Lights)

JCPF+PX Rockport, MA, USA

Name and Location

The Cape Ann Light, also known as the Twin Lights, is located on the rugged coast of Rockport, Massachusetts, USA. Its official name is Cape Ann Light (Twin Lights), and its coordinates are 42°38'12\\" N, 70°34'51\\" W.

Construction and History

The Cape Ann Light was built in 1891 and has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. This iconic structure has been an integral part of maritime navigation for over a century and continues to serve as an Active Aid To Navigation. The lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (#71000355) since October 7, 1971.

Architecture and Materials

The Cape Ann Light stands at an impressive 37.8 meters (124 feet) tall and has a focal height of 50.6 meters (166 feet). Unfortunately, no information is available on the lighthouse's architecture or materials used in its construction.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a red light every 5 seconds, flashing three times (Fl(3)W.15s). Its original purpose was to serve as a horn fog signal, emitting a blast every 60 seconds to warn ships of impending danger. Today, it operates in tandem with the South Tower, providing crucial guidance for mariners.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Cape Ann Light through guided tours or by visiting the adjacent Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge. The lighthouse is an active aid to navigation, but visitors are welcome to explore its surroundings. Guided tours are available through the refuge or local tour operators.

Notable Views and Landscape

From its vantage point, the Cape Ann Light offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. On clear days, visitors can see for miles out to sea, taking in the majesty of the open waters. The lighthouse is situated within the Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area that provides habitat for various bird species and other wildlife.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Unfortunately, no notable shipwrecks or significant historical events have been recorded at the Cape Ann Light. However, its rich history and ongoing importance as an aid to navigation make it an integral part of maritime heritage in Massachusetts.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse has undergone several renovations and modernizations over the years. Its current use is as an active aid to navigation. Unfortunately, no information is available on the lighthouse's technical or operational details.

Further Information

For more information, please visit the Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge or local tour operators for guided tours. The lighthouse's Wikipedia page can be found at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_Ann_Light_Station">[en:Cape Ann Light Station].

Details

NameCape Ann Light (Twin Lights)
CityRockport
CountryUsa
Coordinates42.6368258, -70.5750355
Websitehttps://thacherisland.org/
Year of construction1891
Historic significanceListed on the National Register of Historic Places (#71000355) since October 7, 1971
StoriesFormer lighthouse keepers who ensured its continued operation and maintenance.
Focal height50.6
Tower height37.8
Heritage statustrue
Access descriptionGuided tours or by visiting the adjacent Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Accessibletrue
Landscape typeRocky coast
View descriptionBreathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline.
Guided tourstrue
FacilitiesLimited parking and restrooms available within the refuge.
Opening hoursVaries depending on guided tours or refuge hours
Nearby attractions["Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge","Rockport Harbor"]
Light characteristic"Fl(3)W.15s"
Automatedtrue