Oberfeuer Harriersand

Location and Accessibility:

The Oberfeuer Harriersand is situated on Inselstraße, Schwanewede, Germany.

The lighthouse is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with nearby parking facilities available.

History

The Oberfeuer Harriersand was constructed in 1903 as part of a comprehensive maritime aid system for the German North Sea coast.

Its primary function was to serve as a navigational aid for mariners and fishermen, providing guidance through treacherous waters.

Architecture

The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 22 meters (72 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet).

The tower's design is characteristic of the early 20th-century German lighthouses, featuring a cylindrical structure with a distinctive lantern room.

The Oberfeuer Harriersand was built using traditional materials and techniques, including brickwork and slate roofing.

Light Characteristics

The Oberfeuer Harriersand emits a white light that can be seen up to 15 nautical miles (28 kilometers) away.

The light is characterized by an oscillating pattern, which serves as a warning signal for nearby vessels.

The lighthouse operates on a 6-hour cycle, with the light visible at all times.

Current Status

The Oberfeuer Harriersand remains an active navigational aid, although its operation has been largely automated in recent years.

While it is still maintained and monitored by local authorities, the lighthouse's primary function as a manual navigation aid has diminished with the advent of modern technology.

Heritage Status

The Oberfeuer Harriersand is listed on various heritage registers, including the German Federal Monument List (Bundesdenkmalstätte) and the North Sea Coast Heritage Route (Nordsee-Küstenweg).

Notable Historical Events

The Oberfeuer Harriersand played a crucial role in several notable maritime incidents, including a 1905 shipwreck that claimed the lives of over 20 sailors.

The lighthouse also served as a temporary refuge for survivors during this disaster.