The Three Sisters Light #1

The Three Sisters Light #1 is a historic lighthouse located on Cable Road in Eastham, Massachusetts, United States.

History

• The Three Sisters Light #1 was constructed in 1898 as part of the Nauset Light System, designed to aid navigation along the coast of Cape Cod. The tower stood at an impressive height of 65 feet (20 meters) above sea level and featured a distinctive octagonal shape with a square base.

Architecture

The lighthouse's architecture is characteristic of the late 19th-century American lighthouse style, featuring a combination of stone and cast-iron construction materials. The tower's eight-story structure was designed to withstand harsh coastal weather conditions, while its distinctive lantern room housed a Fresnel lens that emitted a powerful beam of light.

Light Characteristics

• The Three Sisters Light #1 featured a fixed red light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers). The light's pattern was reported to be a steady burn throughout the day and night, serving as a vital aid to mariners navigating the treacherous waters off Cape Cod.

Current Status

Deactivated in 1923, the Three Sisters Light #1 was eventually relocated to its current site near Nauset Light. Today, the structure stands as a testament to the region's rich maritime history and is no longer an active aid to navigation.

Location and Accessibility

The Three Sisters Light #1 is situated on Cable Road in Eastham, Massachusetts, approximately 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the village center. Visitors can access the site via public road, although parking may be limited during peak season.

Heritage Status

The Three Sisters Light #1 has been recognized as a historic landmark by the state of Massachusetts and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War I, the lighthouse played an important role in guiding Allied ships through the treacherous waters off Cape Cod. The structure's reliability and accuracy were instrumental in ensuring the safe passage of these vessels, contributing significantly to the war effort.