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The Cuckolds Light

Town Landing Road

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The Cuckolds Light (Southport)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

The Cuckolds Light

The Cuckolds Light was first established as a daymark on November 16, 1892, to mark the eastern pair of islets known as the "Cuckolds" in Lincoln County, Maine, United States. A bell was installed in 1893 and a light was added in 1907. The lighthouse played an important role in maritime navigation, guiding mariners through treacherous waters.

Architecture

The Cuckolds Light is a classic example of a 19th-century lighthouse design. The tower stands at a height of approximately 40 feet (12 meters) above the sea level, with a focal height of around 75 feet (23 meters). The light source is believed to be a first-order Fresnel lens.

Light Characteristics

The Cuckolds Light emits a distinctive pattern of red and white flashes, visible from a distance of several miles. The light's range is estimated to be around 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers).

Current Status

The Cuckolds Light was decommissioned in 1974, but the keeper's house was rebuilt from 2010 to 2014, along with the wharf and lighthouse restoration. Today, the light remains active, although its operation is automated.

Location and Accessibility

The Cuckolds Light is located on Town Landing Road in Southport, Maine, United States. The site can be accessed by car or boat, although parking is limited. Visitors can view the lighthouse from a distance, but access to the tower itself is restricted due to safety concerns.

Heritage Status

The Cuckolds Light was added to the National Register of Historic Places listings in Lincoln County, Maine as Cuckolds Light Station on December 2, 2002, recognizing its historical significance and architectural importance.

Notable Historical Events

The Cuckolds Light played a crucial role in maritime navigation during World War II, guiding Allied ships through treacherous waters. The lighthouse also served as a vital aid to navigation for fishermen and sailors in the region.

  • The Cuckolds Light was first established as a daymark on November 16, 1892, to mark the eastern pair of islets known as the "Cuckolds" in Lincoln County, Maine, United States. A bell was installed in 1893 and a light was added in 1907.
  • The lighthouse played an important role in maritime navigation, guiding mariners through treacherous waters.
  • The Cuckolds Light is a classic example of a 19th-century lighthouse design. The tower stands at a height of approximately 40 feet (12 meters) above the sea level, with a focal height of around 75 feet (23 meters).
  • The light source is believed to be a first-order Fresnel lens.
  • The Cuckolds Light emits a distinctive pattern of red and white flashes, visible from a distance of several miles. The light's range is estimated to be around 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers).

Details

NameThe Cuckolds Light
CitySouthport
CountryUnited States
Coordinates43.77968, -69.650024
Current useactive navigation
Accessiblefalse