Name and Location

The Chuckanut Lighthouse is located at 2182 Chuckanut Drive, Bow, Washington, USA (48.6104679° N, -122.4374362° W).

2. Construction and History

The lighthouse was constructed in 1896 to address the high number of shipwrecks along the treacherous shores of Puget Sound. Designed by architect James Knox Taylor, the tower stands at an impressive 55 feet (16.7 meters) tall, with a focal height of 45 feet (13.7 meters).

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is constructed from brick and mortar, with a distinctive black-and-white striped pattern.

4. Light and Navigation

The lighthouse's original light characteristic was a fixed white light, but in 1933, it was modified to a flashing red light every 15 seconds, with a range of approximately 17 nautical miles (31.5 kilometers).

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Although the lighthouse is no longer operational for navigation purposes, it has been converted into a private residence. Visitors are not permitted to enter the property; however, the surrounding area offers stunning views of the coastline and Puget Sound.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

The Chuckanut Lighthouse is situated within the scenic Chuckanut Drive, a popular route that winds its way along the coast, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, forests, and ocean. The nearby Samish River flows into Puget Sound, providing a habitat for various aquatic species.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

One of the most notable events surrounding the Chuckanut Lighthouse was the rescue of a stranded ship, the SS Columbia, in 1905. The lighthouse's crew assisted in guiding the vessel to safety, saving the lives of its passengers and crew.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The managing authority for the lighthouse is privately owned; there is no specific managing authority responsible for its upkeep or maintenance.

9. Further Information

For more information on the Chuckanut Lighthouse, please consult the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation's records or local historical societies.