Santa Barbara Light

The Santa Barbara Light is a historic lighthouse located on the coast of California, United States.

History

• The Santa Barbara Light was built in 1856 and has been guiding mariners through the waters off Santa Barbara since its construction. The lighthouse played a crucial role in the early days of maritime trade and navigation along the West Coast.
• The lighthouse was also an important aid to navigation during World War II, when it helped guide Allied ships through the waters off California.

Architecture

The tower of the Santa Barbara Light stands at a height of 43.2 meters (142 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of 64.5 meters (211 feet). The lighthouse is constructed from local sandstone and features a distinctive octagonal shape.

The structure was designed by architect John H. Hartt.

Light Characteristics

• The Santa Barbara Light emits a white light that can be seen up to 14 nautical miles away.
• The light has a period of 10 seconds and is characterized by a rotating beam that sweeps through a sector of 275 degrees from the north.

Current Status

The Santa Barbara Light is currently an automated aid to navigation, with the light being operated remotely by the United States Coast Guard.

However, the lighthouse is no longer in active use as a navigational aid and has been converted into a museum.

Location and Accessibility

The Santa Barbara Light is located at Lighthouse Place in Santa Barbara, California.

The location can be accessed via a public road, and the lighthouse is open to visitors during certain hours of the day.

Heritage Status

The Santa Barbara Light was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, recognizing its importance as a historic landmark and navigational aid.

Notable Historical Events

• The Santa Barbara Light played a significant role in the early days of maritime trade and navigation along the West Coast.
• The lighthouse was also an important aid to navigation during World War II, when it helped guide Allied ships through the waters off California.