Highland/Cape Cod Light

The Highland/Cape Cod Light is a historic lighthouse located on Highland Light Road in North Truro, Massachusetts.

History

• The light has been guiding mariners since 1856, when it was first commissioned. Over the years, the light has undergone several renovations and upgrades to improve its performance.

The lighthouse was designed by architect Jonathan Skinner, who also designed several other notable lighthouses in the region.

Architecture

• The Highland/Cape Cod Light is a prominent example of 19th-century lighthouse architecture. Built in 1856, the tower stands at an impressive height of 20 meters (66 feet) above sea level.
• The focal height, or the distance from the base of the tower to the top of the optic, is approximately 26 meters (85 feet).
• The light's distinctive red and white striped exterior has become a recognizable landmark on Cape Cod.

The structure is built from locally quarried granite and features a traditional octagonal shape with a square base.

Light Characteristics

• The Highland/Cape Cod Light uses a first-order Fresnel lens to produce its distinctive beam.
• The light's pattern is characterized by a narrow, horizontal beam that extends approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers) out to sea.
• The range of the light is believed to be around 20-25 nautical miles (37-46 kilometers), making it an important aid to navigation for mariners.

Current Status

The Highland/Cape Cod Light is currently operated as a museum and tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and significance.

The lighthouse has been automated since the 1980s, but its beam remains an important part of the region's maritime heritage.

Location and Accessibility

The Highland/Cape Cod Light is located on Highland Light Road in North Truro, Massachusetts, approximately 27 miles (43 kilometers) east of Provincetown.

Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its surrounding grounds by appointment only. Guided tours are available during peak season, providing insight into the light's history and significance.

Heritage Status

The Highland/Cape Cod Light has been recognized as an important part of Cape Cod's cultural heritage.

The structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a member of the United States Lighthouse Society.

Notable Historical Events

• The Highland/Cape Cod Light played a significant role in several notable historical events, including the American Civil War and the construction of the Cape Cod Canal.
• During World War II, the lighthouse was used as a navigation aid for Allied forces. Today, the light remains an important part of the region's maritime heritage, guiding mariners safely into port.