Price's Creek Lighthouse

The Price's Creek Lighthouse has been guiding mariners through the waters of North Carolina since its construction in 1855.

History

• The lighthouse was built to serve as a vital aid to navigation for ships traversing the treacherous coastline, particularly during the height of the Civil War era.
• During the American Civil War, the Price's Creek Lighthouse played a significant role as a strategic location for Union forces.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The Price's Creek Lighthouse is an exemplary example of mid-19th-century lighthouse design. Constructed from locally sourced stone and brick, the tower stands at 30 meters (98 feet) tall, with a focal height of approximately 55 meters (180 feet).

Light Characteristics

The Price's Creek Lighthouse features a fixed first-order Fresnel lens, which projects a beam of light out to sea.

The light pattern is characterized by a narrow, white beam that extends approximately 8 nautical miles (15 kilometers) from the tower.

Current Status

The Price's Creek Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the mid-20th century.

Today, the lighthouse serves as a museum and popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and operational significance.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Ferry Road Southeast in North Carolina, the Price's Creek Lighthouse is easily accessible by car or foot.

The site is situated near the intersection of US Highway 12 and NC Highway 12, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the region's scenic coastline.

Heritage Status

The Price's Creek Lighthouse has been recognized as a historic landmark by the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources, acknowledging its importance in the state's maritime history.

The lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a member of the US Lighthouse Society.

Notable Historical Events

• In 1862, Confederate troops occupied the lighthouse, using it to monitor naval movements in the area.
• The tower remained under Union control until the end of the war, when it was returned to its original owners.