Old Point Loma Lighthouse

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the Point Loma peninsula at the mouth of San Diego Bay in San Diego, California.

History

• The original Point Loma Lighthouse was built by the United States government in 1855 after California's admission as a state. It was constructed to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering San Diego Bay. The lighthouse played an important role in the region's maritime history, guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the bay.

Architecture

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a characteristic example of mid-19th-century American lighthouse design. It stands at a height of approximately 78 feet (24 meters) above sea level and features a distinctive square tower with a gallery and lantern room. The lighthouse was constructed using local materials, including stone and wood.

Light Characteristics

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse originally featured a fixed first-order Fresnel lens, which produced a beam that could be seen up to 20 miles (32 kilometers) out to sea. However, the lighthouse is no longer in operation as a navigational aid.

Current Status

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is currently open to the public as a museum and is operated by Cabrillo National Monument. While it is no longer an active lighthouse, it remains an important part of San Diego's cultural heritage.

Location and Accessibility

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is situated on half an acre of land designated Cabrillo National Monument, located at Concrete Catch Basin in San Diego, California. The site is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Heritage Status

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and is considered a National Historic Landmark. It is also recognized as a historic lighthouse under the National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places program.

Notable Historical Events

• The Old Point Loma Lighthouse played an important role in the region's maritime history, guiding ships through San Diego Bay.
• In 1974, the lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its significance as a historic landmark.