Dyce Head Light

The Dyce Head Light was constructed in 1829 to serve as a navigational aid for vessels entering Castine Harbor on the Penobscot River.

History

• The lighthouse played a crucial role in the region's thriving shipbuilding and lumber trade, guiding ships safely into harbor until its deactivation in 1937.
• The original lighthouse was built using traditional materials of the time, including stone and wood.
• Its distinctive tower height of approximately 50 feet (15 meters) is still visible today, although a significant portion of the structure has been restored or rebuilt over the years.

Light Characteristics

• The Dyce Head Light features a characteristic pattern of flashes per minute, which is reported to be 3 times per minute.
• Its range is estimated to be approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers), making it an effective aid to navigation for vessels approaching the harbor.

Current Status

After being deactivated in 1937, the lighthouse was left to deteriorate until its reactivation in 2008.

Location and Accessibility

The Dyce Head Light is situated at the southernmost point of the Castine peninsula in Hancock County, Maine.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via Dyces Head Road, which offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and harbor.

Heritage Status

• The Dyce Head Light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a contributing property to the Castine Historic District, which was designated in 1973.
• This recognition acknowledges the lighthouse's significant contribution to the region's history and cultural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• 1829: The original lighthouse is constructed to serve as a navigational aid for vessels entering Castine Harbor.
• 1937: The Dyce Head Light is deactivated, marking the end of an era for this important navigational aid.
• 2007: A microburst destroys the 475-foot (145 meters) skeleton tower that replaced the original lighthouse.
• 2008: The original lighthouse is reactivated and continues to operate today.

Dyce Head Light

The Dyce Head Light was constructed in 1829 to serve as a navigational aid for vessels entering Castine Harbor on the Penobscot River.