Cape Cod Lighthouses

Stage Harbor Lighthouse (a.k.a. Harding’s Beach Lighthouse)

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What You Should Know About Stage Harbor Lighthouse

Also known as Harding’s Beach Lighthouse, the Stage Harbor Lighthouse is one of the most noticeable landmarks in this area. It is the youngest lighthouse in Cape Cod having been built in 1880. For centuries, it has provided navigational aid to all sailors, and it has become one of the scenes that everyone wants to visit when they come to this area. If you are wondering why it is always associated with the history of Cape Code, it is because almost everything that has been developed in this area has a direct relation to it. The following are some of the facts that you may want to know.

Accessibility

Today, the lighthouse is a private property and therefore, it is not open to the public. You will have to get special permission in order to visit it. However, that does not mean that it is totally out of bounds. For example, school children and tourists often get access to tour the property after being cleared by the owners. To get such a chance, you will have to make inquiries early so that a specific date can be assigned to you. There however are some parts that may be restricted even if you have the permission to visible.

If you want to view it without necessarily entering the gates, you can get the best views from Harding’s Beach in Chatham. From this point, you will see some of the amazing architectural work that is the lighthouse. Apart from that, you can get a wonderful view from the other side of the harbor towards the end of the Stage Neck Road. There also are various other points from where you can get views of the property depending on the specific aspects that you want to see.

It was deactivated in 1933

53 years after the Stage Harbor Lighthouse was constructed, it was deactivated. This brought to an end one of the operations that had become synonymous with the the area. What followed seemed like a transformation as almost everything seemed to change. The lighthouse itself had to change from its original lighting systems role to one that saw it become more of a monument. However, that does not mean that it became useless. In fact, it is this new role that has made it even more popular. Today, you only need to search for the best places to visit in this area, and the lighthouse will be among the top recommendations.

After the deactivation and subsequent privatization, certain aspects of the Stage Harbor Lighthouse changed too. If you look at the pictures that were taken before deactivation and the current ones, you quickly will notice that there are variations starting with the exterior painting. For instance, the lantern was removed, and the tower was capped. You also will notice that e tower has become attractive because the current owners are keen on making it one of the most noticeable attractions in this area. In addition to that, the perimeter fencing has been reinforced, and that is the reason trespassing is not allowed.

Construction materials

The main materials used to construct this 48-foot tower is cast iron. At the time of construction, it was one of the best buildings around because not many structures were made using such materials. Because of the nature of cast iron, it had to take a long time to construct this tower, and that is the reason why it ended being one of the best constructions. In fact, it ended up laying the basis of the construction of many other iconic buildings that followed, thus helping to shape the skyline of the entire area.

Apart from the main tower, there were also other structures that were made using a combination of various materials. The the boat shed and the keeper’s house were mainly made from wood, although other materials including cast iron were used. In addition to that, there was a separate outhouse that was made from concrete. The design was inspired by a foreign concept, mostly borrowed from the initial settlers in the area. After the deactivation, most of these extra structures were demolished to pave way for a whole new look lighthouse.

Most keepers received commendations

Despite the fact that this lighthouse was only operational between 1180 and 1933, most of its keepers ended up receiving commendations and efficiency stars. Because of the significant role that the tower played in shaping up the operations of the town, almost everyone who was put in charge of it was given special treatment. Alfred A. Howard, who was in charge between 1906 and 1916, was recognized severally for his effort to rescue boaters. Among his most memorable deeds is when he rescued four boaters from a boat that had ran out of gas, and brought them to safety. It was during the same time that he guided a yacht into the harbor because the captain was not familiar with the area.

In 19913, Keeper Howard made another rescue. At that time, a boat belonging to a member of the nearby Monomoy Life Saving Station capsized in the rough waters. It was keeper Harding who made a daring rescue. Another one of his most daring rescues was a 1914 operation when he saved a horse that was stuck in Quicksands. This time, the owner of the horse wrote to the Lighthouse Board in Boston appreciating and recognizing the effort made by Howard to save his horse, as well as the other men that had accompanied him. He even specifically noted that the keeper had supplied his men with rubber boots and dry stockings.

After the deactivation, the Stage Harbor Lighthouse went through a series of sales. The first owner was an army officer who bought it through an auction. Later on in 1936, the property was sold again. This time, the new owner was Henry Sears Hoyt. Although the property has changed ownership severally, it is still owned by the Hoyt family. One of the times when the family open it up for the public is during the Cape Cod Open Week in May.

Chatham, Massachusetts

Built in 1880, Stage Harbor Lighthouse is Cape Cod’s
youngest lighthouses.    It was built at the entrance to
Stage Harbor to help the Chatham Light since Chatham
is one of the foggiest points on the East Coast.

An automated light on a separate tower was built in 1933
and the Stage Harbor Lighthouse was decommissioned.
The light at the top of the tower, the glass enclosure and
the roof over it (called the lantern room) was removed
and the keeper’s house and remaining tower was sold.

It is now private property and you should respect the
owner’s privacy.
The lighthouse is best viewed from Harding’s Beach.


Stage Harbor Lighthouse as it looked while operational.

Directions to Harding’s Beach

Travel along Route 28 to West Chatham.
Turn onto Barn Hill Road and take second right
onto  Hardings Beach Road.
Follow to the

A history of the Stage Harbor Lighthouse can be found at:
http://www.newenglandlighthouses.net/stage-harbor-light-history.html


Five very good photos of the Stage Harbor Lighthouse can be seen here:
http://www.lighthouse.cc/stageharbor/thumbs.html

More information about Stage Harbor Lighthouse can be found at:
http://www.nelights.com/exploring/Massachusetts/stage_harbor_light.html

Nearby Places to Eat:

Larry’s PX
1591 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
none
2.4 miles

Mom & Pops Burgers
1603 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.momandpopschatham.com/
2.4 miles

West Chatham grill
1615 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
none
2.4 miles

Kream N’ Kone – Chatham
1653 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States

Home


2.5 miles

Mac’s Chatham Fish & Lobster
1291 Main St Route 28, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
https://www.chathamfish.com/
2.9 miles

Nearby Accommodations:

Chatham Motel
1487 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathammotel.com/
2.5 miles

Eider Duck Cottages
1470 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathamhomerentals.com
2.5 miles

Highlander Motel
1653 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathamhighlander.com/
2.5 miles

Chatham Guest Rooms
1409 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathamguestrooms.com/
2.6 miles

Pine Shore Cottages
1402 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.pineshorecottages.com/
2.6 miles

Nearby Things to do:

Chatham Marconi Maritime Center
847 Orleans Rd, Chatham, MA 02650, United States
http://www.chathammarconi.org/
5.3 miles

Chatham Railroad Museum
153 Depot Rd, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathamrailroadmuseum.com/
5 miles

Godfrey Windmill
125 Shattuck Pl, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathamwindmill.com/
5 miles

Atwood Museum
347 Stage Harbor Rd #2229, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathamhistoricalsociety.org/
5 miles

Chatham Shark Center
235 Orleans Rd, Chatham, MA 02650, United States
https://www.atlanticwhiteshark.org/shark-center
5.5 miles

Race Point Light

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Introduction

If Cape Cod is “the bent and twisted arm of Massachusetts, then Race Point is at the knuckles of the curved fingers. This Historic Lighthouse’s first rubble stone iteration was first lit roughly two hundred years ago, all the way back in 1816. Eventually it got replaced in 1876 with a substantially larger iron plated tower and a new keeper’s dwelling that remain standing to this day. It is registered on the National Register of Historic Places as Race Point Light Station and operated by the American Lighthouse Foundation. Two buildings – the Keeper’s House and the Whistle House – of the property are available for rent to visitors for overnight stays, since 1998 whereas tours are available, free of charge, on the first and third Saturdays from June until October from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm.

History of Race Point Light

More than two hundred years ago, as early as 1808, merchants and mariners of Provincetown kept asking for a Light to be raised in Race Point. Eventually, on April 27th of 1816, the United States Congress in response to the demands of the petitioners granted $8.000 in order to construct a suitable lighthouse at Race Point.

Originally, the specifications called for an octagonal wooden tower standing twenty feet tall but those plans were soon altered. The lighthouse finally went into service on November 5th, 1816, laid with common lime mortar, standing twenty five feet of rubble stone tall, with its light twenty seven feet above mean high water. It was joined to a small, stone keeper’s dwelling. It was designed to be a revolving light, so that it would be distinguished from another Light on the Highland of Cape Cod.

The Storm of 1841 and the evolution of Race Point

Until 1841, the Race Point Light did its job admirably. It was then, though, that a tremendous storm swept Cape Cod. Truro, a town next to Provincetown lost seven vessels and fifty seven men in the storms. This disaster prompted people to inspect the Race Point Light. I.W.P Lewis, in particular, while recognizing the Light’s importance was very critical of its powers of illumination, deeming them too weak, and found the tower to be leaky, with no foundation.

Race Point, thus, started undergoing substantial reworking and various improvements. Amongst others, a fog bell was installed in 1852. In 1855, its old lamps and reflectors were replaced by a new, fourth order Fresnel Lens. During those years, the whole tower was partly taken down and rebuilt, the woodwork was renewed, the roofs repaired, the chimneys partly rebuilt, the grounds graded.

1875 and beyond

Evidently though, these restoration efforts were not enough. In 1875 there were reports of substantial decay and rot. The old stone tower was replaced in 1876 by a 45 foot, brick lined, and cast iron lighthouse after the much needed funds ($ 2.800) were appropriated. The Fresnel Lens was moved to the new tower, and its illumination method changed from a flash to a fixed light. In the meantime, the original keeper’s house was torn down, and a new dwelling was built. Moreover, a new rainwater cistern was added in 1877.

The electrification and automation of Race Point

Many years passed until another important renovation of Race Point Light took place. The Lighthouse was electrified in 1957. In 1960, the keeper’s house was torn down another time, and the other, smaller house next to it was modernized. In 1972, following technological developments and advancements, the Light was automated, its Fresnel Lens removed, and a solar powered VRB-25 optic taking its place. In 1995, the surrounding property, including both houses, was leased to the American Lighthouse Foundation. The keeper’s house’s roof was repaired and the chimney got rebuilt by the International Chimney company.

The Race Point Light Station today

The Race Point properties are currently maintained by the Cape Cod Chapter of the American Lighthouse Foundation, a non-profit organization, funded primarily by donations and made up dedicated volunteer members with a mission to restore and preserve the Lighthouse, the Keeper’s house, the Whistle House, the Oil house amongst others.

The Lighthouse is open for touring on the first and third Saturdays from June until October, open from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and free of charge. Visitors can get to the Lighthouse either by walking, via a two mile hike from the parking lot at the Race Point Coast Guard Station or by vehicle, after obtaining a National Park Service Oversand Permit.

Accommodations for approximately eleven people are available, with considerable amenities being included: A fully-equipped kitchen complete with a gas oven, two refrigerators and an outdoor grill. In addition, an outdoor shower is in place for the visitor’s convenience. Race Point boasts of environmental care and “green energy”, with even the backup generator using bio diesel fuel.

It is important to state that people planning to stay overnight should bring bed linens, towels, food and drinking water, as these are not provided for the time being.

Becoming a Volunteer Keeper at Race Point

The Cape Cod Chapter of the American Lighthouse Foundation currently recruits volunteers who are interesting in helping the ongoing restoration, upkeep and maintenance of Race Point Station, Wood End and Long Point Lighthouses. For craft savvy, skilled volunteers, whatever their expertise the vast majority of maintenance projects is being accomplished during March and April.

If a volunteer’s inclination leans more towards people rather than restoring the site, Cape Cod Chapter would welcome them as tour guides during the summer months. That would be a great opportunity to come across and get to know people from all around the globe, sharing the history of Race Point with them.

Finally, should a volunteer wish so, they may apply to become a Race Point Lighthouse Keeper. To learn more about becoming Keepers, interested parties should download and read the Keeper’s Program Requirements. In addition, filling out a Volunteer Data Form is required, which has to be submitted to the appropriate address listed on the form.

If Cape Cod is “the bent and twisted arm of Massachusetts,”
then Race Point is at the knuckles of the curved fingers.
This is one lighthouse that will let you spend an overnight
in the keeper’s house!
A light first began operating at Race Point in 1816 but
the current tower was built in 1876.
Today the light and fog horn are run by solar power.

Tours of the lighthouse are given regularly during the
the summer months.  Access to the lighthouse is via
a two mile hike from the parking lot at the Race Point
Coast Guard Station.

For more photos and information about tours and overnight visits to Race Point,
visit www.racepointlighthouse.net

Also visit the American Lighthouse Foundation’s webpage
about Race Point.

An interesting page about the history of the Race Point Light
can be found at http://www.newenglandlighthouses.net/race-point-light-history.html

Nobska Point Lighthouse

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Nobska point is passed by a stream of ships crossing Vineyard Sound, Falmouth and borders the Elizabeth Islands to the north and south Vineyard Martha. In 1828, the US government bought four acres in Nobska point for $ 160 and the first lighthouse was built on the spot, a wooden structure that incorporates wax layers, at a price of $ 2,249.

The original lighthouse was in the typical Cape Cod style with an octagonal tower over the house by a stone Guardian who had on the first floor three rooms and two small stairs up. The room is equipped with ten flashlights with reflectors fourteen inches, a solid white light seventy-eight meters above the sea.

What you should know about Nobska Point Lighthouse

The status of each beacon and the quality of the work manager has been evaluated by the lighthouse service at regular intervals. On November 1, 1838, Lieutenant Edward W. Carpe, US Navy, praised Peter Daggett, the first guardian of light, for his “reputation and orderliness. According to a contemporary newspaper “” Daggett was removed from the position in the summer of 1849 “because he is a democrat.

A separate guardian house was also built in 1876. The Fresnel lens was upgraded to a fourth order in 1888 for greater purpose; This Fresnel is still in its place today and you can see when visiting the lighthouse.

In 1875, the fog bell sounded in the unit was set up, and at the same year the Council Lighthouse pointed out that although they have made preliminary repairs, the station was in ruins and had to be rebuilt.

In 1841 the first Fresnel lens was installed. Named after the French physicist Augustin Fresnel, these giant glass lenses are intelligently designed by a source to collect light to emit the center of gravity and a beam with a range of several nautical miles.

In 1845, Daggett used 209 liters of oil and 130 gallons of oil of both summer and winter

A fog signal building was designed to accommodate the nebula signal system, which was sounded when the visibility fell less than five miles

During the 1930s and 1940s they introduced technological advances. A radio tower was built in 1937 for the triangulation camp Cleveland Ledge and Butler Flats New Bedford built

Bright wood structure has been working for 38 years and was replaced in 1876 by the present lighthouse is 40 meters high, which was established in Chelsea, Massachusetts.

1905 added to a second carrier housing; Structure of wooden floor structure 1 ½ built at a price of $ 6000. In 1919, current reached Cape Cod and the light was electrified with 150-watt bulb, which made sure that oil was no longer used.

Why visit Nobska Lighthouse

Falmouth offer, close to many recreational activities resting on its clean beaches, sailing, horseback riding. There are also many art galleries, antique shops and museums in the area, to enjoy your taste. The Cahoons Museum of American Art is housed in an old colonial hacienda, collections of Cahoons folk paintings, and a selection of collections of ancient and contemporary art from America. Cape Cod Children’s Museum offers fun exhibits, including a 30 foot pirate ship climbing structure, a medieval castle and an inflatable planetarium.

Close to Woods Hole is a small town that comes to life with many restaurants, shops, galleries, museums, educational institutions and attractions, beautiful gardens and panoramic summer views. This exquisite environment is something you shouldn’t miss if you want to relax and get lost in the natures amusement.

If you are tired of walking you can take the tram. If you enjoy cycling or walking, use the Shining Sea Bikeway that runs around the areas of Falmouth and Woods Hole with splendid views of landscapes. If you have spent the entire day with people and feel like taking a walk alone so as you can have the inner peace and enjoy the quietness. Then Nobska offers just that as the surrounding environment is filled with vegetation and has nice fresh air breeze.

Also for the whole family, you can get by practicing the Ocean Quest training education program in marine life, here bring the kids in a part of the 60 transform fishing boats that move on the lobster traps to Different kinds of natural cruises are also offered. You will be sure that you and your family will have a great time and will live to remember the experience for eternity.

Direction to Nobska Lighthouse

Falmouth

Take Route 28 to Falmouth and then turn south along the side of the street.

At the end of the road, turn right onto Surf Beach Road.

Follow the road to the beach a mile and a half on Oyster Pond Road.

Turn left onto the road and follow the Nobska lighthouse.

Bourne Bridge

Go around the roundabout and exit towards MA-28 via the second roundabout in Falmouth. MA-28 narrows to become Locust Street, which goes only through Falmouth and Woods Hole Road. Go 5km to Woods Hole Road, then turn left onto Church Street, which becomes Nobska Road. The lighthouse is left after the beach.

Hyannis Directions

Take the Cape Route Route 6 MA Middle, North to Exit 1C (Sandwich / Route 6 N). Turn left onto Route 6 west of the roundabout onto Bourne Bridge. Follow the instructions below for Bourne Bridge.

Providence/New York

Follow 95 North. Take I-195 East Providence (Exit 20). Follow I-195 East to the Cape Cod / Islands Exit (Exit 22A). Take exit 25 off the road heading south and cross the Bourne Bridge to the roundabout.

Finally this is a great place to visit as you will have lots of places to visit and the activities involved are so wide that will surely meet the expectations of everyone. Doesn’t matter if you are alone or you are a family person or you just going out with friends, everyone is sure to like something at the end of the day and you will not regret for having spent any coin on such a trip.

 Woods Hole, Massachusetts

Established in 1828, this lighthouse served to protect boating
in Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay.  Today, most people
view the lighthouse from a passing ferry boat as they
travel from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard.


Click on image above to read text.

Directions to Nobska Point Light:

  • Travel along Route 28 into Falmouth.
  • In Falmouth Center follow signs for the
    Woods Hole Ferry Terminal by
    turning right onto Woods Hole Road.
  • Turn left onto Church Street and follow it to the Lighthouse.

A great history of the Nobska lighthouse can be found at:
http://www.newenglandlighthouses.net/nobska-point-light-history.html

More information about the Nobska Lighthouse can
be found here :
http://www.newenglandlighthouses.net/nobska.html

Nauset Light

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Nauset Light, is the most famous and photographed lighthouse on Cape Cod, is located within the Cape Cod National Coast. It is an important part of Easthams cultural and maritime history. Nauset Light is helping private fleets and uses of small sailing boats that sail near the coast it is also important to note that the lighthouse is no longer under the auspices of the United States Coast Guard.

What lead to the construction of the lighthouse: –

Many ships were destroyed at the Nauset Bar at Sea, which provoked inhabitants in 1836, in Eastham to write to Marine society of Boston, to request a lighthouse for Nauset Beach, on the Atlantic coast of the Cape, halfway way between Highland Light in Truro and the two lights in Chatham. The Congress approved in March 3, 1837 the construction of the lighthouse to stop the wrecking of ships as it allocated $ 10,000 for the new station.

Nauset Lighthouse is located just on nauset road from Cable Beach, Cape Cod National Seashore near Eastham, Massachusetts. The history of the Nauset lighthouse is inextricably linked to the two sisters Nauset Light and Chatham lights. In 1923, the tower remains from the light station three sisters had deteriorated to the point that repair was not necessary. In 1911, the Nauset cliff had eroded the eight-foot span of the north tower, and the Lighthouse Office decided to switch to a single light. The three sisters retreated from the edge of the cliff. Nauset lighthouse was fitted with lights that crossed three times every 10 seconds this was a homage to the three sisters, and the second home in 1876 connected. The original house was removed. The only light was commissioned on June 1, 1911. The new Light Nauset received the fourth order Fresnel lens from the remaining tower of the three sisters. The lantern was then propelled by kerosene.

In the 1980s, the strength of the waves and violent storms had eaten the nearby cliff and threatened Nauset Lighthouse. Through the efforts of the Nauset Preservation Society the light house which was around eighty tons and 336 feet was safely shifted from the edge by help of the International Fireplace Flare Corporation and Expert Movers. The movement, which lasted two days and began on November 16, 1996, was much easier than the task of moving the Cape Mountain lighthouse, which the two companies had already done a year earlier.

Nauset Lighthouse was automated in 1955 by the United States Coast Guard, and sold to the porter. In 1981, modern Aerobeacons replaced the fourth-order Fresnel lens, currently the National Coast Visitor Center is shown on Eastham on Cape Cod.

The house of the keeper was removed from the edge of the cliff, and placed near the cast iron tower. The 48-foot tower was painted white until the 1940s, when the upper half was painted red to increase visibility during day time.

In 1998, Mary Daubenspeck agreed to give 1,875 dwelling house of the keeper to the National Park Service, but she reserved thr right to use the house for twenty-five years. In October of the same year the dwellin house of the keeper, which was only seven feet from the edge of the cliff, was also move across the street and met the tower, where the same orientation and relative position were kept in front of the lighthouse, although Daubenspeck did not live long to enjoy the new place as she died in March 2001.

The property of the lighthouse went to Cape Cod National Seashore. In May 2004, a collaborative agreement was signed between the National Parks Service and the Nauset Conservation Society. According to the agreement, the NLP will keep the lighthouse going as an aid to private navigation and is responsible for maintaining the tower and the oil house

More information about Nouset Lghthouse

The nauset lighthouse is serving as an active light to navigators or mariner. This has helped reduced the number of accident involving ships or sailors.

The lighthouse was immortalized in a painting by Edward Hopper and is now a poster child for local fundraising. This has made it possible for those in charge of conserving the lighthouse to raise funds to maintain the lighthouse.

The picturesque Nauset lighthouse is the iconic symbol of Cape Cod. Well Cape Cod is now identified with the lighthouse. Just mention the Nauset lighthouse and someone will take you to Cape Cod.

For $ 100 every two years, residents can purchase a vehicle license plate with an image of Nauset Lighthouse to take advantage of special projects on Cape Cod and the islands.

Nausets red and white tower, bags are now the hot deals in the local supermarkets as they are used to pack potato chips that are sold in the local supermarkets

How to get there is not that hard. You will just take route 6 Street Support (third traffic signal Eastham / Orleans). Turn right on Brackett road. Go to the end and turn to Nauset Road. Take the first right on the road through cable. At the end of the cable route, turn left at the Ocean View Drive car park. Keep walking on the way of Nauset light.

Nauset Light Preservation Society is funded exclusively by donations and local partners. When you visit the lighthouse, please do everything you can to keep Nauset light to maintain and open for many years to the public. Nauset light is free for the public. You can visit anytime you are free and you can climb to the top of Nauset light, visit the viewing room and learn about the history of the lights. Even though it might be on a holiday that you decide to visit there is a possibility that people will visit more, and you will have to wait your turn. Don worry it won’t take much of your time waiting as the visit to the top is a short one and you could always come back when there are less people if you want to stay up there for long and take photos for memory.

Nauset Light, Eastham, MA

This red and white tower is an easily recognized logo
on bags of Cape Cod Potato Chips.


The only way up the tower is via this circular staircase.


The double spinning lamps atop Nauset Light

Directions to Nauset Light:

.  Follow Nauset Road and turn left
onto Cable Road.  Go to the end of Cable Road and turn left
onto Ocean View Drive.  The lighthouse will then be visible.

The Nauset Light Preservation Society has a website detailing
the 1996 move of the Nauset Lighthouse to its present location:
http://www.nausetlight.org/

Monomoy Point Lighthouse

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Chatham, Massachusetts

Established in  1823, the Monomoy Point Lighthouse helped sailors
navigate around the neck that hangs from the elbow of Cape Cod.

After 100 years (in 1923), it was determined that the powerful
lighthouse in Chatham was sufficient.  Sea traffic around
outer Cape Cod had lessened since the opening of the
Cape Cod Canal in 1914 so the Monomoy Point Light
was deactivated.

In the past overnight visits to the lighthouse were arranged via the friends
of  the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge group. Unfortunately the last
few winters and vandalism have required many costly repairs and
currently, in the interest of public safety, visitors are not allowed
to stay in the lighthouse or keepers house.

The lighthouse itself was built in an area that is difficult to get to.
During the summer season, there are ferry services that will
take you to Monomoy and back.  One such service is:
http://www.monomoyislandferry.com/
another Monomoy ferry service is:
http://www.outermostharbor.com/

These ferry services will take you to North Monomoy and
you should plan on doing a fair amount of hiking if you
plan on getting to the lighthouse.

Photos of Hardings Beach and Stage Harbor Lighthouse can be found at:
http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/182336341usgVVG?start=0

Long Point Light

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Marking the entrance to Provincetown Harbor, Long Point
Lighthouse is an unmanned light.  It is 38 feet tall and
shines a green light.  A fog sensor activates the fog horn.
The lighthouse was built in 1875 and the adjacent oil house
was built in 1904.  This remote light can only be accessed by
foot or boat.  It is now illuminated via solar panels.


Telephoto lens makes Long Point Lighthouse look
closer to Provincetown center than it really is.

For more information and photos of the Long Point Lighthouse,
visit the webpage at the American Lighthouse Foundation.

Lewis Bay Lighthouse (a.k.a. Hyannis Harbor Light)

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The lighthouse is listed as Lewis Bay Lighthouse, but it is now called Hyannis Harbor Light.

In the early 1800s Hyannis was a busy fishing and commercial port, and in 1840 more than 200 Hyannis men and their ships had arrived to Hyannis and called it home. To mark the port entrance, the Gammon Point Lighthouse was built in 1816 on the southern tip of the Big Island. As Hyannis kept growing and fishing activity kept increasing, there was demand for a lighthouse to sailors around treacherous waters is light Hyannis Harbor. This marks the right port, but it did little to guide ships in the inner harbor.

The conical brick tower was only 19 feet at the base of the lantern and was crowned with a room of the aviary style lantern. Inside the lantern were five oil lamps and reflectors that the guardian put into service on May 7, 1849th. It was a fixed white light with a red area, which guided the ships from the dangerous southwest sound. It will take several years before Congress did authorized a lighthouse at Hyannis Port. A law of August 15, 1848 announced $ 2,000 for the construction of the tower.

What you need to know about Hyannis Port

The first light was displayed as a hanging lamp in a window of a cottage for a number of years by Daniel Hallett in front of the house a lighthouse was built, where he was appointed guardian in the 1849th

The first guard, Daniel Snow Hallett worked for a salary of fifteen dollars a month and lived in a separate house in the neighborhood, as no living room was made available. But luckily he was not living far either this enabled him do his daily work and be able to return home in time as he lived in the nearby neighborhood.

So as to ensure he does not spend much for maintenance of the light, Daniel Snow Hallett often used sell printed instructions to safely navigate to Hyannis Port. Most Hallett was often assisted by his son, Daniel Bunker Hallett, who would go with his dog pilot to the lighthouse. The boy would stay until morning, light, then go home before breakfast, then go to school

It was a law dated September 28, 1850 $ 800 that then set for appropriated a wooden guard apartment. This ensured that Hallett had a house as guardian. Before then Hallett hard to do lots of moving around to keep the harbor functioning. For example he had to ensure the early in the evening he goes to turn on the light and switch it off in the morning or when it was foggy he had also to keep the light lit.

In the 1850s, the lighthouse at Hyannis Harbor was converted into a more efficient Fresnel Fresnel. 1856 Due to the small size of the lantern, it was removed aviary in 1863 and replaced with a larger cast iron lantern. Lewis Bay was so busy and it kept receiving many ships so it was necessary that the light house be upgraded to meet the purpose.

The current owners, Janice Hyland and Alan Granby, owners of Hyland Granby Antiques bought the site in 1985. The new owners made changes inside by renovating, peeling plaster, replacing rotting wood, pulling the carpet and Kitchen conversion included. This new owners have made a lot of changes for it to meet the modern lifestyle but still the light house looks so amazing even from a distance and you can always still stand at the beach and take nice photos of the lighthouse.

The first owners or keepers did not stay long as keepers of the Lewis lighthouse. This was not that they wanted so but it was due to political reasons since at the time politics in the U.S was not as advanced as is now.

Why visit Hyannis Port

There are lots of reasons to visit Hyannis port all you need is to select what to do first or where to visit first. Some of the activities you can do include:-

You can visit the Cape Cod Potato Chip factory and taste the final results or purchase tickets at the Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis, which offers many acts of music and theater during the summer season.

For a unique land and adventure of water, take a ride on the Cape Cod mobile duck

Hyannis is the largest city of Cape Cod with many leisure activities, as well as surrounding cities to a wide range of cultural events and festivals, lots of nightlife and music, museums and miles of beaches Area.

You can observe the whales of Barnstable, north of Hyannis.

There are a variety of museums to explore such as the Maritime Museum, the John F. Kennedy Museum, the Classic Sports Toad Museum Auto Museum, various art museums such as the Cahoon Museum of American Art, or visit the museums Heritage and Gardens, near Sandwich, The Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra performs in Barnstable’s Cape Cod Performing Arts Center, Cape Cod’s premier concert hall in Hyannis

How to get to Hyannis Harbor

From Boston to the south, take Route 3 South to Route 6 on Sagamore Bridge to Exit 6, Route 132 to Hyannis

From the intersection of Highways 132 and 28 north of Hyannis, turn south on Hyannis-Barnstable Road.

Continue on Ocean Street Gosnold Street.

Turn right onto Gosnold Street and proceed to the Harbor Road

Turn left onto Harbor Road, where the lighthouse on the right is at the end of the road.

Note that this is a private property. Hence keep off as you may get to trouble or even get yourself arrested for trespassing and you will not want that for all the good reasons. Since the property is privately owned accessed to the tower and grounds is not possible unless you are a friend of the family. But do not worry as you can always be able to have a great view of the lighthouse from the beach or as you stand across the road.

Hyannis, Massachusetts

In service since 1849, this inner harbor lighthouse was in
operation until 1929 when it was decommissioned and sold.
It is now privately owned and visitors are not allowed.

This lighthouse is easily seen since the ferry boats,
departing to and returning from Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard,
travel right by it.


Hyannis Harbor Lighthouse as it looked in the 1800’s.

A great history of the Hyannis Harbor Lighthouse can be found at:
http://www.newenglandlighthouses.net/hyannis-harbor-light-history.html


For current  photos of the Hyannis Harbor Lighthouse go to:
http://www.lighthousefriends.com/light.asp?ID=484

More information about the Hyannis Harbor Lighthouse can be found at:
http://www.us-lighthouses.com/displaypage.php?LightID=77

Highland Light (A.K.A Cape Cod Light)

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The following was written by Henry David Thoreau in 1865:
“THIS LIGHT-HOUSE, known to mariners as the Cape Cod or Highland Light,
is one of our “primary sea-coast lights,” and is usually the first seen by
those approaching the entrance of Massachusetts Bay from Europe.”

“It was said in 1794 that more vessels were cast away on the east shore of
Truro than anywhere in Barnstable County. Notwithstanding that this light-house has
since been erected, after almost every storm we read of one or more vessels
wrecked here, and sometimes more than a dozen wrecks
are visible from this point at one time.

“Truro was settled in the year 1700 as Dangerfield. This was a very appropriate name, for I afterward read on a monument in the graveyard, near Pamet River, the following inscription:

Sacred
to the memory of
57 citizens of Truro,
who were lost in seven
vessels, which
foundered at sea in
the memorable gale
of Oct. 3d, 1841

During the summer of 1996, the lighthouse was moved back from the eroding cliffs in an effort to save it from falling into the sea.  The move itself was an elaborate production where the tower was lifted onto a wheeled platform that rested on a pre-constructed railway.  The tower was then pushed, ever so slowly, down the rails to the new site.  To keep the old brick tower from crumbling, it was encased in a “girdle”  of strong cable and heavy planks during the move.

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View from the top of Highland Light

For more photos and information about museum and lighthouse tours,
visit:   http://trurohistorical.org/

The National Park Service (Cape Cod National Seashore)
has interesting information about the Highland area at:

http://www.nps.gov/archive/caco/places/thehighlands.html

Another interesting page about the history of the Highland Light
can be found at:
http://lighthouse.cc/highland/history.html

Chatham Light

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Chatham Lighthouse

Locals grew up in the shadow of the guiding light of the Chatham Lighthouse. Some watched its historical move. Although it has undergone renovations, it has remained the same in structural design and purpose. Open; a few hours a week in summer for visitors, the Chatham Lighthouse is an American Icon.

Over the years, thousands of people have had the privilege of visiting the Chatham Lighthouse. Tours began in 1990 and continues to remind people of the contributions that Mariner’s make to the world and its economy.

History of Chatham Lighthouse:

Chatham Lighthouse, in its origin, was placed on Cape Cods Southeastern location. The present lighthouse is one of six that were built in the Cape. This area entertained a great deal of maritime traffic. However, the waters of Cape Cod were brutal to many ships that graced its shores.

The coastline of Cape Cod is rumored responsible for over 3500 wrecked vessels (1850 through 1980). Those who sailed close to the Chatham shores tell tales of ghostly images that lured ships to what seemed like, safety; only to have their hopes dashed against the rugged shores of the Cape.

The building of the lighthouse was no cheap endeavor, nor was it easy considering the sand. In the early years, merchandise took months to reach the American shores, and it took experienced sailors to bring it home, not to mention ships were precious and costly to build. This lighthouse was built with the same solid construction ships were given. Chatham Lighthouse was built to save cargo and lives.

In the days of old, the lighthouse was the only means of preventing a ship from running aground. The beacon emitted light like a giant flashlight, preventing ships from hitting the sharp rocks of the coast. The Chatham Lighthouse, also known as the twin lights prior to 1923, is one of 16 remaining lighthouses on the Cape Cod Coast. The story of the Chatham Lighthouse is more fascinating today as the world looks back over its history. Thanks to the preservation of this guiding light, visitors can visit this historic landmark.

The original structures, built-in 1808, consisted of two towers that were replaced in 1841. These once formerly wood structures were restructured in stone at the cost of $6,750. The Chatham Lighthouse was only one of the 1500 structures built in the United States. Now, there are around 700 left, and many are open for touring. In 1939 the clockwork was motorized, and the Coast Guard began management of the facility. Throughout World War II, Chatham remained operational.

Although the Chatham Lighthouse sits on a coast of more than 600 miles, its primary reach is 64 miles of water encompassed by three sides of the shoreline. Nantucket Sound, located on the south, and Pleasant Bay, on the north. This is why the area is described as the elbow. Those visiting the lighthouse will be privileged to a gorgeous view. However, looks are deceiving, considering thousands of wrecks have taken place along this highly attractive coastline.

The 48 feet tall lighthouse faced the problem of water erosion with 30-feet of shoreline disappearing yearly. This guiding light is a formidable structure that sits 80-feet above sea level and was placed (200 feet from the bluff) in its present position in 1877. The building that stood in 1848 sat further east (noted by pin 2a) of the present lighthouse site.

In the building, fuel was stored on what is described as the oil deck supporting the supply of fuel necessary for keeping the light on. The lighthouse represented land for sea weary sailors, a landmark, and a warning of danger.

As the landscape eroded, placing the tower 26-feet from the edge of the bluff, the tower was in real danger. Within a year, the distance from the shore shrank to 26-inches. The building started to slide into the ocean a couple of months later. A little over a year later, the building constructed in 1841 fell.

The very first building was constructed in 1806. However, the community wanted to create a visible difference from other lighthouse structures in the vicinity; so, the added another building in 1808, placing the second wood structure 70 ft from the older structure. The idea of making these buildings moveable created a safer accessway for ships since the palates these guiding lights sat on were portable.

In addition, to building these portable lights, a one-bedroom dwelling (seventeen by twenty-six feet) was designed for keepers. The light for the tower was fueled with lard in a lamp fastened by a chain. Although this process lasted for years, Chatham Lighthouse was brought up to date in 1982.

Further updating took place in August 1993, when the former Fresnel lens (flashed 4-times every 30-seconds) was replaced by the new DCB-224. Aerobeacons entered the scene as the lantern beam that would take Chatham Lighthouse into the future.

Students, history lovers, and travelers can benefit while visiting this historical landmark. People can let their minds roam into the past while contemplating the conversations that might have taken place back in history about this wonderful piece of history. If visitors want to take in the area, there are plenty of bed and breakfast for hire.

The original plan was to construct the lighthouse platforms from stone. But, as the builder was soon to learn, James Head, the location of the first two lighthouses, was void of stone. Therefore, wood was the final option. Yet, the Chatham Lighthouse still shines around the clock, even today.

Over time, responsibility for the lighthouse has changed hands. In 1923 the decision was made to separate the twin beams. Since more up to date lighting rotates, the need for two towers became obsolete.
When thinking of a lighthouse, trying to imagine standing on the deck of a ship, out on the ocean in a storm, and searching for that beacon of light might seem hard to phantom. Nevertheless, this was a way of life for many, and still creates a livelihood today.

Modern mariners have an abundance of technical gadgets to help them find safe-passage and the mechanism that assists them in measuring the depth beneath the ship. Still knowing that the lights of home, stand strong, well, it has to be comforting.
Now, pieces of the past are affixed to the Chatham Lighthouse property, the North Tower, a museum, and Coast Guard search and rescue. A listing of the keepers and assistants from past to present are listed below, out of all the people listed, the charismatic George F. Woodmen was a favorite.

Assistant Keepers:

Warren Rodgers (1859 – 1863), F.C. Nickerson (1863 – 1867), Samuel H. Hawes (1867), Ezra Hutchings (1867 – 1872), Josiah Hardy, Jr. (1872), Cyrenus C. Hamilton (1872 – 1880), Gilbert Hay (at least 1913 – at least 1921), Thomas E. Carew (at least 1930), James H. Dobbins (at least 1939 – at least 1940).

Head Keepers:

Samuel Nye (1808 – 1813), Joseph Loveland (1813 – at least 1833), Samuel Stinson (at least 1835 – 1839), Lot Norton (1839 – 1841), Collins Howes (1841 – 1845), Simeon Nickerson (1845 – 1848), Angeline M. Nickerson (1848 – 1862), Charles H. Smith (1862 – 1872), Josiah Hardy, Jr. (1872 – 1899), Charles H. Hammond (1899 – 1907), James T. Allison (1907 – 1928), George F. Woodman, Jr. (1928 – 1940), George T. Gustavus (1940 – 1945).

The towers and the people who cared for them were not always harmonious. The keepers and the weather could be tumultuous. Complaints loomed related to construction and the upkeep of the property. When keeper Stinson was keeper, he was terminated. Yet, he made additions to government property and was refused compensation.

The towers replaced in 1841 by “Winslow Lewis, cost over $6,000. However, inside of twelve months, the nephew of Mr. Lewis, collected a report whereas keeper Howes complained of shoddy construction. In another instance, a new president was elected, and a keeper lost his job. So, it is clear politics played a part in the history of Chatham Lighthouse.

The idea of light extending for miles is normal for people of today. People built these towers with no trucks, dragging mounds s of stone through the sand on wagons. No computers with a reach around the world to access the best minds on the planet. These structures have lasted day in and day out, withstanding one of the most powerful forces on earth, the ocean.

However, when you think of the ingenuity of those in the 1800s, the lighthouse is an amazing feat. Buildings built by those with no technology to work with has enabled our modern lifestyle and left a legacy to be proud of, and a structure with an amazing view of the sea.

Address:

37 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633

Phone number:
508-945-3830

Hours of Operation:

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 1–3:30 PM
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Restaurants Nearby:

Experiencing the cuisine of the area while on vacation is usually on the itinerary for most people visiting a region. Whether you want to eat Italian cuisine, Seafood, or Pizza, Chatham restaurants fit every palate. So, here are a few of the local establishments you might want to check out when you feel the need for a good meal: The Chatham Pier Fish Market, The Talkative Pig, Hangar B Eatery, Apt Cape Cod, or Del Mar Bar & Bistro are all good eateries

Tours Available:

The Coast Guard Auxiliary offers tours of the Chatham Lighthouse parklands on Wednesdays beginning at 1:00 to 3:30 PM in the summer period, and every other Wednesday during the Spring and Fall.

Unique Features of Lighthouse to Observe and Experience:

Experience a climb into history by visiting the Chatham Lighthouse. Climb the steps and experience the sea view seen from the same vantage point so many years ago. Play on the beach where ships, plunder, and sailors might have washed ashore. Become a part of history while looking at this grand structure.
Accommodations:

The Chatham Lighthouse does not accommodate sleeping facilities for visitors. However, there are plenty of hotels near. The Chatham Gables Inn is a great example of a New England residence, and a great substitute experience, for sleeping at the actual Chatham Lighthouse.

Hotels Nearby:

There are loads of hotels near the Chatham Lighthouse at good-prices. Most properties have four/five-star ratings and are family-friendly. Here are a few traveler favorites: The Chatham Wayside Inn, Chatham Seafarer Inn, Chatham Bars Inn, and the A Beach Breeze Inn. If you are searching for a luxury adventure or on a budget, there are hundreds of properties in the vicinity

Almost 200 years ago, President Thomas Jefferson
appointed the first keeper of a lard-burning lighthouse
to safely guide ships past Chatham.

The present day lighthouse boasts an electric beacon and
overlooks a beautiful ocean beach

Directions to Chatham Light:

Travel along Route 6 and take Exit 11 for Route 137.
At end of exit ramp, follow signs for Chatham, Rt. 137 South.
Travel 1.7 miles and turn left onto Old Queen Anne Road.
After 1 mile, turn right to stay on Old Queen Anne Road.
Go another 1.6 miles and turn left onto Main St.
Travel 1.4 miles and  turn right onto School St.
Travel .3 miles and turn left onto Water St.
Travel .2 miles and turn right onto Silver Leaf Ave.
The lighthouse will be .2 miles ahead.

A great history of the Chatham lighthouse can be found at:
http://www.newenglandlighthouses.net/chatham-light-history.html

Information about Lighthouse tours for the Chatham Light can
be found here :
http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=013-11&category=1324048036

More information about the Chatham Light
can be found at:
http://www.uscg.mil/d1/staChatham/

Nearby Places to Eat:

Chatham Wine Bar
359 Main St #2, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
https://www.chathamwinebar.com/
0.6 miles

The Blue Coral
483 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.thebluecoral.com/
0.8 miles

Impudent Oyster
15 Chatham Bars Ave, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://theimpudentoyster.com/
0.9 miles

Chatham Squire
487 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.thesquire.com/
0.9 miles

Bluefins Sushi & Sake Bar
513 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://bluefinschatham.com/
0.9 miles

Nearby Accommodations:

Hawthorne Motel
196 Shore Rd, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.thehawthorne.com/
0.8 miles

Chatham Wayside Inn
512 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.waysideinn.com/
0.9 miles

Chatham Bars Inn
297 Shore Rd, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
https://www.chathambarsinn.com/
1.1 miles

The Old Harbor Inn
22 Old Harbor Rd, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
https://www.chathamoldharborinn.com/
1.2 miles

Captain’s House Inn
369 Old Harbor Rd, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
https://www.captainshouseinn.com/
1.7 miles

Nearby Things to do:

Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge Admin Building And Visitor Contact Station
1 Wikis Way, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.fws.gov/refuge/Monomoy/
1.3 miles

Struna Galleries Chatham
458 Main St, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.strunagalleries.com/
0.8 miles

Godfrey Windmill
125 Shattuck Pl, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathamwindmill.com/
1.4 miles

Atwood Museum
347 Stage Harbor Rd #2229, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
http://www.chathamhistoricalsociety.org/
1.2 miles

Chatham Shark Center
235 Orleans Rd, Chatham, MA 02650, United States
https://www.atlanticwhiteshark.org/shark-center
2 miles