Cuttyhunk Light

The Cuttyhunk Light was first established in 1823, marking its beginning as a vital aid to navigation on the waters of Nantucket Sound.

Over the years, the lighthouse underwent several rebuilds and renovations to ensure its continued operation. The most notable reconstruction took place in 1891, when a new tower was built with a 5th order Fresnel Lens.

Architecture

• The original 1891 tower stood at 45 feet (14 meters) tall and housed a 5th order Fresnel Lens, providing a powerful beam to guide mariners safely into Cuttyhunk Harbor.
• Following its destruction in 1947, a skeleton tower was erected, but it was eventually discontinued in 2005.
• The only remaining structure from the lighthouse station is a stone oil house, which has lost its door and roof.

Light Characteristics

The original Fresnel Lens produced a powerful beam that could be seen for up to 20 miles (32 kilometers) out to sea.

Current Status

The Cuttyhunk Light is currently inactive, having been deactivated in 1947 following significant damage during the Great Atlantic Hurricane of 1944.

The lighthouse was replaced by a skeleton tower, which was later discontinued in 2005.

Only the stone oil house remains from the original station.

Location and Accessibility

The Cuttyhunk Light is situated on Bayberry Hill Road, at the west end of Cuttyhunk Island, Massachusetts.

Visitors can access the island via ferry or private boat, with limited parking available near the lighthouse.

Heritage Status

The Cuttyhunk Light has been recognized for its historical significance and has been listed as a notable landmark in Massachusetts.

Notable Historical Events

The Great Atlantic Hurricane of 1944 had a devastating impact on the Cuttyhunk Light, causing significant damage to the structure.

The storm also destroyed the keeper's house, leaving only the stone oil house remaining from the original station.