Name and Location

The Montauk Point Lighthouse, also known simply as “Montauk Light,” stands at the eastern tip of Long Island, New York. Its official name is Montauk Point Lighthouse, and its coordinates are 41.0709777 N, –71.8570943 W.

2. Construction and History

Authorized by President George Washington in 1792, construction began in 1796, and the lighthouse was first illuminated on November 5, 1797. A major renovation and tower extension of +8.5 meters took place in 1860. The lighthouse was authorized as his only lighthouse commission by President Washington.

3. Architecture and Materials

The tower stands at a height of 30.5 meters above its base, with a site elevation of 20.7 meters above sea level. The focal plane is approximately 51 feet (15.6 meters) above mean high water. The original construction material was fieldstone, which was remodeled and heightened in 1860.

4. Light and Navigation

The lighthouse is a major coastal light with a characteristic of flashing white every 5 seconds (Fl W 5s). Its nominal range is 18 nautical miles. It serves as an active aid to navigation maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Managed by the Montauk Historical Society in cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard, the lighthouse functions today as a museum and visitor center. Visitors can access the tower and keeper's quarters on guided tours. The site is open seasonally, with admission fees applicable.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse is located within Montauk Point State Park, managed by New York State Parks. It offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Block Island Sound to the north. The surrounding landscape features rocky bluffs, coastal grasslands, and seasonal wildflowers.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

Local lore suggests that two keepers were married in the light room (c. late 19th century), while other stories whisper of ghosts of early keepers said to wander the keeper's house. The lighthouse has stood watch through the War of 1812, survived numerous nor'easters and hurricanes, and is occasionally linked to the “Montauk Project” conspiracy stories.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was automated at an unspecified date. There is no shore-based radar or AIS installation publicly noted. The U.S. Coast Guard Light List provides information on its light characteristics, while NOAA Chart 12374 (Block Island Sound to Gardiners Bay) references the site.

9. Further Information

For further reading and references, see the U.S. Coast Guard Light List, National Register of Historic Places nomination, Montauk Historical Society website, and Wikipedia page.