Oak Island Lighthouse

The Oak Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Oak Island, Brunswick County, North Carolina, United States.

History

• Construction of the Oak Island Lighthouse began in 1957 and was completed in 1958. The lighthouse has been an important aid to navigation for mariners entering the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean. It is believed to date from this period, serving as a vital reference point for ships navigating the treacherous waters.

Architecture

The Oak Island Lighthouse stands at a height of 153 feet (46.6 meters) above sea level, with a focal height of 51.5 feet (15.7 meters). The lighthouse is cylindrical in shape and features four LED lights that produce a distinctive pattern of light bursts every 10 seconds. The luminous range of the lighthouse extends 20.5 nautical miles.

Light Characteristics

The Oak Island Lighthouse emits a white light with a horizontal colour pattern, visible to mariners from a distance of 22 nautical miles. The light is exhibited at night and has been an important aid to navigation for many years.

Current Status

The Oak Island Lighthouse is currently owned by the town of Caswell Beach and managed by the Friends of Oak Island Lighthouse group. While it remains an active aid to navigation, its automation status is not publicly available.

Location and Accessibility

The Oak Island Lighthouse is situated on Caswell Beach Road, near the mouth of the Cape Fear River in Southeastern North Carolina. The lighthouse can be visited by the public, with guided tours available upon request.

Heritage Status

The Oak Island Lighthouse has been designated as a National Historic Landmark (NHL) and listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Its heritage status reflects its importance as an important aid to navigation and its enduring presence in the maritime community.

Notable Historical Events

While specific details are not available, it is reported that the Oak Island Lighthouse has played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a vital reference point for ships navigating the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean.