Esopus Meadows Light

The Esopus Meadows Light, also known as "Maid of the Meadows" or simply the Esopus Light, is an active lighthouse located on the Hudson River near Esopus, New York.

History

• Construction of the first lighthouse on the site began in 1838 when the land was ceded to the US government for $1.00 by the town of Esopus.
• The light became operational in 1839 and served as a twin to the Rondout II lighthouse further north up the Hudson River.

However, due to heavy damage from flood and ice by 1867, funds were appropriated in 1870 to build a new lighthouse. The current structure was completed in 1871 and is believed to be one of an award-winning design by Vermont architect Albert Dow.

Architecture

• The current lighthouse stands on a granite foundation built atop piles driven into the riverbed.
• It features a clapboard exterior, making it the only Hudson River lighthouse with this characteristic.
• The light is reportedly one of a group of Northeastern lighthouses designed by Albert Dow, with sister lights at Rose Island Light, Sabin Point, Pomham Rocks, and Colchester Reef.

Location

The Esopus Meadows Light is situated on the west side of the channel in the Hudson River, near Esopus, New York. It can only be accessed by boat due to its location.

Light Characteristics

The light's pattern and range are not explicitly stated in available information.

Current Status

As of the last update, the Esopus Meadows Light is an active lighthouse under the care of the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission, which took ownership in 2002. It remains a notable historic landmark on the Hudson River.

Heritage Status

The Esopus Meadows Light was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 as Esopus Meadows Lighthouse and is classified as a heritage site with a rating of 2.

Notable Historical Events

No specific historical events are mentioned in available information.