Conanicut Island Lighthouse

The Conanicut Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island.

History

• The structure was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners and fishermen navigating the busy waters of Narragansett Bay.
• The lighthouse was originally built in 1857 to replace an earlier structure that had fallen into disrepair.

Architecture

The lighthouse stands at a height of 64 feet (19.5 meters) above sea level, with a focal height of 95 feet (29 meters).

It is constructed from cast iron and features a distinctive square tower with a lantern room at its top.

The building's architecture is characteristic of mid-19th-century lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

The Conanicut Island Lighthouse emits a fixed red light that can be seen for up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) in all directions.

The light is visible from a distance of approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) at night, making it an important aid to navigation for mariners.

Current Status

The lighthouse is currently automated and no longer serves as an active navigational aid.

However, it remains a popular tourist destination and has been preserved in its original condition.

Location and Accessibility

The Conanicut Island Lighthouse is located on North Bay View Drive 64, Jamestown, Rhode Island.

The structure can be accessed via a public road and offers stunning views of Narragansett Bay.

Heritage Status

The Conanicut Island Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated as a historic landmark by the State of Rhode Island.

Notable Historical Events

• The lighthouse was originally built in 1857 to replace an earlier structure that had fallen into disrepair.
• The new lighthouse was designed to serve as a more reliable aid to navigation for mariners, and it quickly became an important feature of the local maritime landscape.