Brant Point Light

Located on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, Brant Point Light is an iconic aid to navigation that has been guiding mariners safely since 1901.

Overview

Construction of the lighthouse began in 1900 and was completed by 1901. The structure was designed to serve as a vital aid to navigation for ships entering Nantucket Harbor. Over the years, the light has undergone several restorations and renovations to ensure its continued operation.

History

Brant Point Light is a classic example of a 19th-century lighthouse design. The tower stands at a height of 7.9 meters (26 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 27.4 meters (90 feet). The light's distinctive red coloration is visible from a distance, making it an easily recognizable landmark.

The lighthouse's architecture is characterized by its sturdy stone foundation and granite tower, which provide stability and durability in the harsh coastal environment. The structure's design has been praised for its simplicity and effectiveness in guiding mariners safely to harbor.

Light Characteristics

Brant Point Light is a fixed red light with a characteristic "Oc" pattern, indicating that it emits a beam of light 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers) into the surrounding waters. The light's period is 4 seconds, and its height above sea level is 26 feet.

Current Status

Brant Point Light remains an active aid to navigation, operated by the U.S. Coast Guard. While it is still used for navigational purposes, the lighthouse has also been converted into a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and significance.

Location and Accessibility

The Brant Point Light is located on Easton Street in Nantucket Town, Massachusetts. The lighthouse is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with parking available nearby. Visitors can view the light from a short distance away, but access to the tower itself is restricted due to safety concerns.

Heritage Status

Brant Point Light has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark (NHL) since 1987, in recognition of its architectural and historical significance. The lighthouse is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), further solidifying its importance as a cultural and historical landmark.

Notable Historical Events

Brant Point Light has played a significant role in Nantucket's maritime history, serving as a vital aid to navigation for ships entering the harbor. During World War II, the lighthouse was used as a beacon for Allied aircraft returning from missions over Europe. Today, Brant Point Light remains an important part of Nantucket's cultural heritage, attracting visitors and historians alike.

Architecture

• The tower stands at a height of 7.9 meters (26 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 27.4 meters (90 feet).
• The light's distinctive red coloration is visible from a distance, making it an easily recognizable landmark.
• The lighthouse's architecture is characterized by its sturdy stone foundation and granite tower, which provide stability and durability in the harsh coastal environment.

Light Characteristics

• Brant Point Light is a fixed red light with a characteristic "Oc" pattern, indicating that it emits a beam of light 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers) into the surrounding waters.
• The light's period is 4 seconds, and its height above sea level is 26 feet.