Browns Head Light

The Browns Head Light was established in 1832, making it one of the oldest lighthouses on the East Coast of North America.

History

• The present lighthouse was built in 1857. The tower stands at a height of approximately 100 feet (30 meters) above sea level, while its focal height is around 130 feet (40 meters).
• The lighthouse features a distinctive octagonal shape with a square base, characteristic of many early 19th-century lighthouses.

The Browns Head Light emits a fixed white light, visible from a range of approximately 20 nautical miles. The light's pattern is not specified, but it is believed to be a traditional rotating beam, typical of many historic lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

• The Browns Head Light remains an active aid to navigation, marking the southern side of the western entrance to the Fox Island Thoroughfare. It has been automated and no longer requires manual operation.
• Browns Head Light is located on Browns Head Road 120 in Vinalhaven, Maine. The lighthouse can be accessed by car or on foot, although some areas may require permission from private property owners.

Heritage Status

The Browns Head Light was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as "Browns Head Light Station" on January 27, 1983. This designation recognizes its historical significance and importance in maritime navigation.

Notable Historical Events

• While specific events are not documented, it is known that the Browns Head Light has played a vital role in guiding mariners through the Fox Island Thoroughfare for nearly two centuries.

History

Browns Head Light

The Browns Head Light was established in 1832, making it one of the oldest lighthouses on the East Coast of North America.

Architecture and Construction

• The present lighthouse was built in 1857. The tower stands at a height of approximately 100 feet (30 meters) above sea level, while its focal height is around 130 feet (40 meters).
• The lighthouse features a distinctive octagonal shape with a square base, characteristic of many early 19th-century lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

• The Browns Head Light emits a fixed white light, visible from a range of approximately 20 nautical miles. The light's pattern is not specified, but it is believed to be a traditional rotating beam, typical of many historic lighthouses.
• The Browns Head Light remains an active aid to navigation, marking the southern side of the western entrance to the Fox Island Thoroughfare. It has been automated and no longer requires manual operation.

Current Status

• Browns Head Light is located on Browns Head Road 120 in Vinalhaven, Maine. The lighthouse can be accessed by car or on foot, although some areas may require permission from private property owners.

Heritage Status

• The Browns Head Light was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as "Browns Head Light Station" on January 27, 1983. This designation recognizes its historical significance and importance in maritime navigation.

Notable Historical Events

• While specific events are not documented, it is known that the Browns Head Light has played a vital role in guiding mariners through the Fox Island Thoroughfare for nearly two centuries.