Point Reyes Lighthouse

The Point Reyes Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Point Reyes in Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California, United States.

History

• Construction of the lighthouse began in 1870 and was completed by 1875.
• The lighthouse has played a crucial role in maritime navigation in the Gulf of the Farallones, guiding ships safely into the harbor.

Architecture

The Point Reyes Lighthouse stands at a height of 10.7 meters (35 feet) above the sea level, with a focal height of approximately 43 meters (141 feet).

• The tower is constructed from local granite and features a distinctive octagonal shape.
• The lighthouse's Fresnel lens and clockwork mechanism are on display in the main chamber of the lighthouse, known as the Lens Room.

Light Characteristics

The Point Reyes Lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

• The light is visible from a distance of over 30 miles (48 kilometers) at night.

Current Status

The Point Reyes Lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the 1990s.

• The lighthouse is no longer manned by a keeper and is now managed by the National Park Service as part of Point Reyes National Seashore.

Location and Accessibility

The Point Reyes Lighthouse Trail leads visitors down to the lighthouse itself, weather permitting.

• The park's adjacent Lighthouse Visitor Center features exhibits about the lighthouse and the park's marine life and natural history.
• Visitors can climb approximately 300 steps to reach the lighthouse.

Heritage Status

The Point Reyes Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991, recognizing its significance as a historic landmark and aid to navigation.

Notable Historical Events

• The Point Reyes Lighthouse has played a crucial role in maritime history, guiding ships safely into the harbor during times of stormy weather.
• The lighthouse's Fresnel lens was also used for scientific research, including studies on the behavior of light and optics.