Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
Maine
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, located in Bristol, Maine, is a historic lighthouse commissioned in 1827 by President John Quincy Adams. The original structure was replaced in 1835 due to poor construction. It features a rare fourth order Fresnel lens installed in 1856, one of only six still in use in Maine. The lighthouse is set on distinctive exposed metamorphic rock formations that date back hundreds of millions of years, creating a striking and photogenic coastal landscape. The keeper's house, built in 1857, now serves as the Fishermen's Museum, showcasing maritime history and lighthouse artifacts. The lighthouse was automated in 1934 and is currently maintained by the American Lighthouse Foundation's Friends of Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985 and was selected by Maine residents to be depicted on the state quarter. The surrounding park offers picnicking, art galleries, and views of the ocean and local geology, making it a popular tourist attraction.
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Tip: Visit between mid-May and mid-October when the lighthouse is open to visitors by volunteer docents. Consider purchasing tickets or donating in advance to support ongoing restoration efforts. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide the best light for photography. Check weather conditions as the coastal area can be windy and rocky. The park offers picnic facilities and art galleries for additional activities.
Interesting facts
- •The lighthouse features one of only six fourth order Fresnel lenses still in use in Maine.
- •It was chosen by popular vote to appear on the Maine state quarter in the U.S. Mint's 50 State Quarters Program.
- •Marcus A. Hanna, a former keeper, is the only man awarded both the Medal of Honor and the Gold Lifesaving Medal.
- •The lighthouse and its surrounding rock formations are among the most photographed scenes on the Maine coast.
- •The geological formations at the site date back over 400 million years to the Silurian Period.
History
The lighthouse was originally built in 1827 but was replaced in 1835 due to poor construction using salt water in the mortar.
The second construction used fresh water as mandated.
In 1856, it was upgraded with a fourth order Fresnel lens, improving its light visibility.
The keeper's house was added in 1857.
Marcus A.
Hanna, a notable keeper, served here after earning both the Medal of Honor and Gold Lifesaving Medal.
The lighthouse was automated in 1934 and later added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
In 2024, the bell house was damaged in a storm but was fully restored within eight months.
Place Guide
The Lighthouse Tower1835
The iconic white lighthouse tower houses the rare fourth order Fresnel lens, which focuses light for maritime navigation. Visitors can learn about its construction and historical significance.
Keeper's House and Fishermen's Museum1857
Built in 1857, the keeper's house now serves as the Fishermen's Museum, featuring exhibits on local maritime history, lighthouse artifacts, and community events such as classes and concerts.
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park
The surrounding park includes picnic areas, scenic coastal views, the Pemaquid Art Gallery, and access to nearby historic sites like Colonial Pemaquid, where early English settlers established a colony.
Contact
Phone: (207) 677-2492
