Name and Location

The Choptank River Lighthouse is located in Cambridge, Maryland, USA, at the confluence of the Choptank River and the Chesapeake Bay. The exact coordinates are: 38°35'41"N, -76°04'18"W.

Construction and History

The Choptank River Lighthouse was built in 1899, making it a representative example of late 19th-century lighthouse design. It has guided mariners for centuries and remains an important landmark on the Eastern Seaboard.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at a height of approximately 40 feet (12 meters) above the waterline, with a focal plane height of about 60 feet (18 meters). The structure is constructed from brick and stucco, with a foundation built on pilings driven into the riverbed. Its architectural style is characterized by its distinctive square shape with a pyramidal roof, adorned with a weathervane featuring an eagle.

Light and Navigation

The original light source was an oil lamp, which was later replaced by an electric beacon. The lighthouse's light characteristic is a fixed white light, visible for approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) out to sea.

Accessibility and Visiting

The Choptank River Lighthouse is currently automated, with no resident keeper. The structure remains accessible to the public, offering guided tours upon request. Visitors can reach the lighthouse by car or boat from Cambridge's downtown area.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands at the edge of the Chesapeake Bay, surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic waterways. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and small mammals.

Anecdotes and Folklore

In 1923, a severe storm caused significant damage to the lighthouse's tower and keeper's dwelling. A subsequent renovation restored the structure to its original glory. William H. Jones served as one of the keepers from 1914 to 1933.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (#99001564) and is a significant cultural resource in Maryland. It is managed by the Maryland Historical Society, which ensures its preservation for future generations.

Further Information

• For more information on the Choptank River Lighthouse, please visit its Wikipedia page.
• Visitors can also explore Cambridge's historic downtown area, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums. Nearby attractions include the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum.