Montauk Point Lighthouse

The Montauk Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Turtle Hill at the easternmost tip of Long Island, New York.

History

• Authorized by President George Washington in 1792, the first lighted in 1797. Remodeled and tower extended by 8.5 m in 1860. The lighthouse was the first to be built within the state of New York. It is the fourth oldest active lighthouse in the United States.

Architecture

The Montauk Point Lighthouse is a 30.5-meter (100-foot) tall structure, with a focal height of 51 meters (167 feet). The tower is constructed from local stone and features a distinctive octagonal shape. The architect responsible for its design was Q1247826. The lighthouse has undergone several renovations over the years, including a major restoration in 2012.

Light Characteristics

The Montauk Point Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 18 nautical miles (33 kilometers). The light is characterized by a distinctive Fl pattern, indicating its direction and distance from other vessels. The lighthouse's light period is 5 seconds, making it an important aid to navigation for mariners.

Current Status

The Montauk Point Lighthouse is currently operated as a privately run museum, not part of Montauk Point State Park. Visitors can access the lighthouse and learn about its rich history through guided tours and exhibits.

Location and Accessibility

The lighthouse is located on Turtle Hill at 2000 Montauk Highway, adjacent to Montauk Point State Park. The park offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Visitors can access the lighthouse via the Paumanok Path, which connects it to the park's visitor center.

Heritage Status

The Montauk Point Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) with reference number 69000142. In 2012, it was designated as a National Historic Landmark for its significance to New York and international shipping in the early Federal period.

Notable Historical Events

In 1969, the lighthouse's inscription date was officially recognized by the NRHP. The Montauk Point Lighthouse has played an important role in maritime history, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners and helping to establish New York as a major shipping hub.