Memorial Lighthouse

The Memorial Lighthouse, located on Lighthouse Road in Trinidad, California, has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1855.

History

• The lighthouse was built by the United States Coast Survey to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the San Francisco Bay.
• Its primary function was to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the Golden Gate Strait.

The Memorial Lighthouse is a prominent structure, standing at an impressive height of 80 feet (24 meters) above sea level.

Architecture

• The tower's focal height, which is the distance from the base of the lens to the tip of the light, reaches an altitude of 120 feet (37 meters).
• The lighthouse's design is characteristic of traditional American lighthouses, with a square base and a cylindrical body.

The Memorial Lighthouse was constructed using local materials, including granite and mortar.

Light Characteristics

• The Memorial Lighthouse features a first-order Fresnel lens, which produces a characteristic red light that can be seen from a distance of up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).
• The light's pattern is a steady red flash every two seconds, making it an important aid for mariners navigating the San Francisco Bay.

The Memorial Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated since the mid-20th century.

Current Status

• Today, the lighthouse serves as a museum and is open to the public for guided tours.

The Memorial Lighthouse is situated on Lighthouse Road in Trinidad, California, approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of the town's center.

Location and Accessibility

• The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walk from the parking area, which is located near the intersection of Lighthouse Road and Highway 1.

Heritage Status

The Memorial Lighthouse has been recognized as a historic landmark by the State of California, which has listed it on its official register of historic sites.

The lighthouse's designation as a National Historic Landmark was announced in 1980, solidifying its status as an important cultural and historical resource.

Notable Historical Events

• The Memorial Lighthouse played a significant role during World War II, when it served as a vital aid to navigation for Allied ships entering the San Francisco Bay.
• The lighthouse's light was also used as a reference point for the development of radar technology in the region.