Craighill Channel Upper Range Front Light

The Craighill Channel Upper Range Front Light is a historic lighthouse located on Gettysburg Avenue in Dundalk, Maryland.

This structure has played a vital role in maritime navigation for over a century.

History

• Construction of the lighthouse began in 1858 and was completed by 1860.
• The tower was designed to serve as an aid to navigation for vessels entering the Craighill Channel, which connects the Chesapeake Bay to the Susquehanna River.
• The light's primary function is to provide a warning to mariners of the channel's entrance.

Architecture

The lighthouse stands at a height of 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level and has a focal height of 45 meters (148 feet).

It features a distinctive square tower with a red-and-white striped exterior.

The structure was built using local stone and brick, with a cast-iron lantern room housing the first-order Fresnel lens.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse emits a fixed white light that can be seen from a distance of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

The light's pattern is a steady burn, indicating its constant presence as a navigational aid.

Current Status

The Craighill Channel Upper Range Front Light remains an active aid to navigation.

However, in recent years, automation has reduced the need for manual operation, and the lighthouse now operates under remote control.

Location and Accessibility

The lighthouse is situated on Gettysburg Avenue in Dundalk, Maryland.

Visitors can access the structure via a public road, although parking may be limited.

Heritage Status

The Craighill Channel Upper Range Front Light has been designated as a historic landmark by the State of Maryland.

Its significance as an important aid to navigation and its well-preserved condition have earned it recognition as a notable example of 19th-century lighthouse architecture.

Notable Historical Events

While there is no specific information available on notable historical events associated with this lighthouse, its construction during the mid-19th century reflects the growing importance of maritime trade in the United States.

The light's presence has undoubtedly played a role in facilitating safe passage for vessels navigating the Craighill Channel.