Great Point Light

The Great Point Light was first built in 1784 on Nantucket Island, marking one of the earliest lighthouses constructed in the United States.

History

• The original wooden tower stood until it was destroyed by fire in 1816. A stone tower was erected in 1825 to replace the wooden structure, but it too met a similar fate when it was toppled in a storm in March 1984.
• Following its destruction, the lighthouse underwent significant reconstruction efforts. In 1986, a new stone tower was built to replicate the original design, and the light remains operational to this day.

Modern additions include solar panels to recharge the light's batteries and a sheet pile foundation with a thick concrete mat to help withstand erosion.

Architecture

• The Great Point Light features a distinctive stone tower that stands at approximately 65 feet (20 meters) tall. The focal height of the lighthouse is around 115 feet (35 meters), providing an effective range for navigation.
• The light's architecture is characterized by its classic lighthouse design, with a square base and a tapering shape that tapers to the top.

The original wooden tower was replaced by a stone structure in 1825, which stood until it too was destroyed. The current stone tower was built in 1986 using local materials, including granite and sandstone.

Light Characteristics

• The Great Point Light emits a characteristic red light that is visible from a distance of several miles.
• The light's pattern is a steady burn, providing a reliable aid to navigation for mariners.

The Great Point Light remains an active aid to navigation, with regular maintenance and upkeep performed by the U.S. Coast Guard. The lighthouse has been automated since its reconstruction in 1986, with solar panels providing power to recharge the light's batteries.

Location and Accessibility

• The Great Point Light is located on a thin spit of beach where the currents of the Atlantic Ocean and Nantucket Sound meet.
• The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walkway from the parking area, which is situated near the northernmost point of Nantucket Island.

Visitors to the lighthouse can view it from a distance or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance.

Heritage Status

• The Great Point Light was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 as part of the Nantucket Light listing.
• The listing was removed after the destruction of the listed structure in 1986, but the lighthouse remains an important cultural and historical landmark on Nantucket Island.

Notable Historical Events

• The Great Point Light has played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners navigating the treacherous waters surrounding Nantucket Island.
• The lighthouse has also been featured in numerous publications and documentaries, highlighting its importance as a cultural and historical landmark.