Bald Head Lighthouse

The Bald Head Lighthouse, also known as Old Baldy, is the oldest lighthouse still standing in North Carolina.

History

• Built in 1817, it was constructed to help guide ships past the treacherous shoals at the mouth of the Cape Fear river.

Architecture

The tower height of the lighthouse stands at approximately 80 feet (24 meters) above sea level, while its focal height is around 105 feet (32 meters).

• The structure's architectural style is characteristic of early 19th-century North American lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

The Bald Head Lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers).

• The light's pattern is not specified, but it has been an important aid to navigation for mariners entering the Cape Fear river.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation is now automated.

• It continues to serve as a vital reference point for ships and sailors navigating the treacherous waters of the Cape Fear river.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Bald Head Island in North Carolina, the lighthouse can be accessed via Lighthouse Wynd 103.

• The island itself is accessible by ferry from nearby towns.

Heritage Status

The Bald Head Lighthouse has been recognized as a significant cultural and historical landmark in North Carolina.

• Its status as the oldest lighthouse still standing on the state's coast has earned it a place of importance in the country's maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

While no specific notable events are recorded for the Bald Head Lighthouse, its construction in 1817 marked an important milestone in the development of navigation aids along the Cape Fear river.

• The lighthouse's continued operation as an aid to navigation has ensured that mariners and sailors can safely navigate these waters for generations.