Smeaton's Tower

A Monument to Engineering Pioneering

History

• Built in 1759, Smeaton's Tower was a groundbreaking lighthouse that marked a significant milestone in maritime engineering.
• Designed by John Smeaton, the tower's innovative design and construction set new standards for lighthouses of its time.

Architecture

The tower stands at an impressive height of 22 meters (72 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet).

The tower's architectural style is characterized by a distinctive octagonal shape, which was a departure from the traditional cylindrical design of lighthouses.

The tower's structure was built using local limestone and granite blocks.

Light Characteristics

Smeaton's Tower was equipped with a powerful beam that could be seen for miles out to sea.

However, its light characteristics are not well-documented in available records.

Current Status

The tower is currently a redundant lighthouse, no longer in use as an aid to navigation.

It has been preserved and restored as a memorial to John Smeaton, the engineer who designed it.

Location

Smeaton's Tower can be found on Plymouth Hoe, in Plymouth, Devon, England.

The site is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Heritage Status

The tower was listed as a Grade I building in 1952, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.

Notable Historical Events

• 1759: Smeaton's Tower was completed and began serving as an aid to navigation.
• 1877: The tower was forced to be decommissioned due to erosion of the ledge it was built upon.