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Pigeon Point Light

Pigeon Point Light Station, Pescadero, CA 94060, USA

Name and Location

The Pigeon Point Light is located in Pescadero, California, USA, standing tall on the coast of San Mateo County.

Construction and History

The Pigeon Point Light was constructed between 1871-72 by architect David Ebbe. With a rich history dating back to 1872, this striking structure has been guiding mariners and sailors for over 150 years.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse was built with a Gothic-style design inspired by the 19th-century lighthouses of Europe. The original tower stood at an impressive 45 meters (148 feet) tall, with a focal height of 36 meters (118 feet). The lighthouse's white exterior and distinctive lantern room have become synonymous with its picturesque setting.

Light and Navigation

The Pigeon Point Light emits a powerful beam of light characterized by a flashing sequence of 01.0+(09.0), which can be seen for up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers). The light's color is white, and its height above mean sea level is approximately 45.1 meters (148 feet).

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Pigeon Point Lighthouse from dawn till dusk, Monday through Friday. The site offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastline. To reach the lighthouse, take Highway 1 southbound towards Pescadero, turn onto Pigeon Point Road, and follow signs to the light.

Notable Views and Landscape

The Pigeon Point Lighthouse is situated within a picturesque coastal area, surrounded by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy whale watching, bird-watching, and other outdoor activities in this natural haven.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No information available.

Technical and Operational Details

In the early 1960s, the lighthouse was automated, ending the need for manual operation by keepers. Although no longer manned, the Pigeon Point Light remains an important aid to navigation for mariners.

Further Information

The Pigeon Point Light was listed as a California Historical Landmark (#345) in 1979 and is also recognized as a National Historic Landmark by the United States Department of the Interior. For further reading, consult sources such as the U.S. Coast Guard's Lighthouse Directory or Wikipedia's article on the Pigeon Point Lighthouse.

Details

NamePigeon Point Light
CityPescadero
CountryUsa
Coordinates37.1817414, -122.3938851
Year of construction1872
Architectural styleGothic-style
ArchitectDavid Ebbe
Focal height36
Tower height45.1
Access descriptiontake Highway 1 southbound towards Pescadero, turn onto Pigeon Point Road, and follow signs to the light
Accessibletrue
Landscape typecoastal area
View descriptionstunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastline
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Light characteristic"01.0+(09.0) white"
Light range20
Automatedtrue