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Goat Island Light Station

Pier Road

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Goat Island Light Station (Kennebunkport)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Goat Island Light Station

The Goat Island Light Station was established in 1835 to guard the entrance to Cape Porpoise Harbor.

History

  • The original station was upgraded in 1859 to the current brick tower with a fifth order Fresnel lens, significantly improving its visibility and effectiveness.
  • The architect responsible for designing and constructing the lighthouse was the US Army Corps of Engineers.

While specific details regarding notable events associated with the Goat Island Light Station are not available, it is known to have played an important role in maritime safety and navigation for many years.

Architecture

  • The light station's tower stands at a height of 7.5 meters (24.6 feet) above sea level, while its focal height is approximately 30 meters (98.4 feet).
  • The structure is constructed from brick, characteristic of the era in which it was built.

Light Characteristics

The Goat Island Light Station features a fifth order Fresnel lens, which provides a powerful beam to guide mariners through Cape Porpoise Harbor.

Current Status

  • The lighthouse was automated by the United States Coast Guard in 1990 and remains active to this day.
  • The keepers' dwellings and tower are leased to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, ensuring the long-term preservation of this historic structure.

Location

Located off Cape Porpoise near Kennebunkport in southern Maine, the Goat Island Light Station can be seen from shore in Cape Porpoise Harbor just off State Route 9 north of Kennebunkport.

Heritage Status

  • The Goat Island Light Station has been recognized for its historical significance, with a National Register of Historic Places listing (NRHP) number of 87002268.
  • It is also listed on the National Park Service's website as part of the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.

Notable Historical Events

While specific details regarding notable events associated with the Goat Island Light Station are not available, it is known to have played an important role in maritime safety and navigation for many years.

The light has been an essential aid to navigation for over a century. The structure is constructed from brick, characteristic of the era in which it was built.

Details

NameGoat Island Light Station
CityKennebunkport
CountryUnited States
Coordinates43.35783, -70.42512
ArchitectUS Army Corps of Engineers
Current useactive navigation