Cape Flattery Lighthouse

Location and Accessibility

The Cape Flattery Lighthouse is situated on Tatoosh Island, off the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States, at 48°23′09″N 124°43′37″W. The lighthouse can be reached via a short hike from the Cape Flattery Trail, most of which is boardwalked. Visitors can access the cape and its surrounding areas by car or on foot.

History

The construction of the Cape Flattery Lighthouse began in 1857. It was built to serve as an aid to navigation for mariners traversing the Strait of Juan de Fuca, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Strait. The lighthouse has undergone several restorations and renovations over the years to ensure its continued operation.

Architecture

The Cape Flattery Lighthouse is a 19-foot-tall (5.8 m) tower with a focal height of 112 feet (34.1 m). It features a distinctive design, characteristic of early 20th-century lighthouses. The lighthouse's architectural style is attributed to the United States Lighthouse Board.

Light Characteristics

The Cape Flattery Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 14 nautical miles (26 km) and a period of 20 seconds. The light pattern consists of four flashes, spaced at intervals of 4.8, 0.2, 14.8, and 0.2 seconds.

Current Status

The Cape Flattery Lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, operated by the United States Coast Guard. However, it has been automated since its restoration in recent years.

Heritage Status

The Cape Flattery Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) with reference number 72001267. It is also part of the Makah Reservation and the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary.

Notable Historical Events

Cape Flattery has played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners traversing the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The lighthouse's proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its strategic location on the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States make it an important landmark in American history.

References

• See also: Cape Flattery, Olympic National Park, Makah Reservation