Absecon Lighthouse

The Absecon Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, overlooking Absecon Inlet.

History

• Construction on the lighthouse began in 1854 and was completed by 1857.
• The light first lit on January 15, 1857, marking an important milestone in maritime safety.
• The lighthouse was deactivated in 1933, but its light still shines every night.

Architecture

The Absecon Lighthouse is a notable example of Victorian-era architecture. Designed by George Meade, the lighthouse features a distinctive first-order fixed Fresnel lens made of lead glass.

• The lens weighs an impressive 12,800 pounds (5,800 kg).
• The original oil house now contains a Fresnel lens exhibit.

Location and Accessibility

The Absecon Lighthouse is situated on Pacific Avenue in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Visitors can access the lighthouse by car or public transportation.

• The lighthouse is open to the public, with guided tours available for groups and school parties.
• A re-creation of the keepers' quarters serves as a museum and gift shop.

Current Status

Although the Absecon Lighthouse is no longer an active navigational aid, its light still shines every night.

• The lighthouse has undergone preservation efforts, including a restoration project led by Jack E. Boucher in 1964.

Heritage Status

The Absecon Lighthouse is listed on several notable registers:

• National Register of Historic Places
• Historic American Buildings Survey
• New Jersey Register of Historic Places

Notable Historical Events

The Absecon Lighthouse played a significant role in maritime history, serving as an important aid to navigation for over 75 years.

• The preservation and restoration efforts have ensured its continued significance as a historic landmark.

Tower Height and Focal Height

The tower height of the Absecon Lighthouse is 171 feet (52 m). The focal height, which is the distance from the base of the light to the center of the lens, is approximately 170 feet (51.8 m).

Light Characteristics

The Absecon Lighthouse features a fixed first-order Fresnel lens, which provides a range of approximately 20 nautical miles.