Tillamook Rock Light

The Tillamook Rock Light is a deactivated lighthouse located on less than an acre of basalt rock in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 1.2 miles offshore from Tillamook Head and 20 miles south of the mouth of the Columbia River near Astoria.

History

• Construction of the lighthouse was commissioned by the United States Congress in 1878, taking over 500 days to complete. The barque Lupatia was wrecked near the rock during foggy weather shortly before its completion in January 1881, resulting in the loss of all 16 crew members. Only the ship's dog was saved.
• The Tillamook Rock Light was officially lit on January 21, 1881, and at the time was the most expensive lighthouse to be built on the West Coast. Due to local erratic weather conditions and the dangerous commute for both keepers and suppliers, it earned the nickname "Terrible Tilly" (or "Tillie"). Over the years, storms and the sea have damaged the structure, shattered the lens, and eroded the rock.
• The light was decommissioned in 1957 and has since been sold several times to private buyers. Since the 1980s, it functioned as a columbarium until 1999. Today, the lighthouse remains privately owned and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Architecture

The Tillamook Rock Light stands at a height of 19 meters (62 feet) above sea level, with its focal height reaching approximately 30 meters (98 feet). The structure was designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, but has suffered significant damage over the years. The lighthouse is constructed from basalt rock and features a distinctive tower shape.

Light Characteristics

The Tillamook Rock Light uses a first-order Fresnel lens to produce its characteristic beam. However, the lens has been damaged by storms and erosion, reducing its effectiveness. The light's pattern is not well-defined due to the damage, but it is reportedly visible from the coastal cities of Seaside and Cannon Beach, as well as from Ecola State Park.

Current Status

The Tillamook Rock Light is no longer an active aid to navigation, having been decommissioned in 1957. However, it remains a popular tourist destination and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The lighthouse has functioned as a columbarium since the 1980s, but this purpose was discontinued in 1999.

Location

The Tillamook Rock Light is located approximately 1.2 miles offshore from Tillamook Head, with its address being the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Trail. The lighthouse can be seen from the coastal cities of Seaside and Cannon Beach, as well as from Ecola State Park.

Accessibility

Visitors to the Tillamook Rock Light must take a boat tour to reach the lighthouse due to its remote location. The lighthouse is not open to the general public for tours or visits, but can be viewed from a distance.

Heritage Status

The Tillamook Rock Light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. It has also been designated as a Category A landmark by the State of Oregon.

Notable Historical Events

• 1878: Construction of the lighthouse was commissioned by the United States Congress.
• January 1881: The Tillamook Rock Light was officially lit, marking its completion.
• 1881: The barque Lupatia was wrecked near the rock during foggy weather, resulting in the loss of all 16 crew members.
• 1957: The light was decommissioned due to damage and erosion.