Plum Beach Lighthouse

The Plum Beach Lighthouse was built in 1899 and played a crucial role in maritime navigation during its operational years. The lighthouse's construction marked an important milestone in the development of coastal defense systems in the United States.

Architecture

The Plum Beach Lighthouse is a sparkplug lighthouse, characterized by its distinctive design and innovative engineering techniques. Built using pneumatic caisson engineering, the lighthouse features a granite base that was added in 1922. The structure's architecture reflects its purpose as a navigational aid, with a focus on safety and efficiency.

Light Characteristics

The Plum Beach Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 2 nautical miles and a period of 5 seconds. The light is characterized by a distinctive sequence, with a primary flash followed by four secondary flashes. This unique pattern helps to identify the lighthouse as a navigational aid.

Current Status

After being deactivated in 1941 due to the construction of the Jamestown Bridge, the Plum Beach Lighthouse fell into disrepair. However, in 1999, the Friends of Plum Beach Lighthouse organization acquired ownership of the structure and undertook extensive restoration work. The lighthouse was re-activated as a Coast Guard Private Aid to Navigation in 2003 and is now licensed for operation.

Location and Accessibility

The Plum Beach Lighthouse is situated on Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge, spanning the East Branch of the Pawtuxet River in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. The lighthouse is accessible via a short walkway from the bridge's southern end.

Heritage Status

The Plum Beach Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of its historical significance and architectural importance. In 2003, the lighthouse underwent extensive restoration work, which helped to preserve its integrity as a navigational aid.

Notable Historical Events

The construction of the Jamestown Bridge in 1941 marked a significant turning point for the Plum Beach Lighthouse, as it was subsequently deactivated due to the bridge's completion. The lighthouse's re-activation in 2003 marked a new chapter in its history, as it resumed its role as a navigational aid.