Cape May Lighthouse

Location and Accessibility

The Cape May Lighthouse is situated on Light House Avenue in Cape May Point, New Jersey, United States.

It can be accessed via a short walk from the nearby parking area.

History

The lighthouse has served as a beacon for mariners since its construction in 1859.

The tower was built to guide ships safely into the harbor and provide warning of potential hazards such as rocky shores and shallow waters.

Architecture

The Cape May Lighthouse is an iconic example of mid-19th-century lighthouse design, featuring a cylindrical tower with a distinctive square base.

The structure stands at 171 feet (52 meters) tall to the top of the lantern room, while the focal height reaches 175 feet (53 meters).

The tower's exterior is constructed from granite and mortar, with a distinctive red-painted finish.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse features a first-order Fresnel lens, which produces a characteristic pattern of flashes.

The light has a range of approximately 21 miles (34 kilometers) at sea, making it an essential aid to navigation for mariners.

Current Status

The Cape May Lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated since the 1980s.

The lighthouse remains in use by the United States Coast Guard and continues to be maintained as a vital part of the nation's maritime infrastructure.

Heritage Status

The Cape May Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) with reference number 73001090, recognizing its significance as an important example of mid-19th-century lighthouse design.