Block Island Southeast Light
Rhode Island
Block Island Southeast Light is a distinguished lighthouse situated on Mohegan Bluffs at the southeastern tip of Block Island, Rhode Island. Built in 1874 and first lit in 1875, it is one of the most architecturally sophisticated lighthouses in the United States, exemplifying Gothic Revival style through its brick construction and ornate design. The lighthouse features a 67-foot tall tower with an octagonal granite foundation, a cast iron parapet, and a distinctive sixteen-sided copper pyramidal roof. Attached to the tower is the keeper's house, a 2-1/2 story brick structure with kitchen wings and porches originally designed to house the keeper and his assistants. The original lighting apparatus was a first-order Fresnel lens, notable for its size and engineering, which was later replaced by a fixed lens from Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Due to erosion threats, the entire lighthouse was moved 300 feet inland in 1993 to preserve it. Today, it operates as a museum managed by the Southeast Lighthouse Foundation, offering guided tours and preserving its maritime legacy.
ヒント: Visit during the summer season when the tower is open for guided tours to the top, providing spectacular views and an immersive experience. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to support restoration efforts. Be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain near the Mohegan Bluffs. Check the foundation's website or local sources for current opening hours and tour availability.
興味深い事実
- •The lighthouse was moved 300 feet inland in 1993 to protect it from cliff erosion, involving the relocation of a 2,000-ton structure.
- •It features one of only twelve first-order Fresnel lenses that were still in use as of 1997.
- •The lighthouse's original roof was made of cast iron and was replaced by a copper pyramidal roof in 1994.
- •The Southeast Lighthouse Foundation has engaged in legal actions to prevent offshore wind farms that could obstruct the ocean view from the lighthouse.
歴史
Although funds were initially appropriated in 1856 for a lighthouse at the site, the Block Island Southeast Light was not constructed until 1874 and lit in 1875.
It was built to replace earlier lighthouses lost to storms and represented a shift towards more architecturally refined lighthouse designs.
The original Fresnel lens was a first-order lens with four circular wicks burning lard oil, later replaced by kerosene.
In 1990, the Coast Guard deactivated the light, replacing it with a steel tower, and in 1993 the lighthouse was moved inland due to bluff erosion.
Ownership was transferred to the Southeast Lighthouse Foundation in 1992, which has since preserved and maintained the site.
The lighthouse was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997 for its architectural significance and historic role in navigation.
場所ガイド
Main Lighthouse Tower1874
The 67-foot tall brick tower with an octagonal granite foundation and a distinctive sixteen-sided copper pyramidal roof. Visitors can climb to the lantern room for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island coastline.
Keeper's House and Connecting Wing1874
A 2-1/2 story brick residence attached to the tower by a 1-1/2 story wing, originally housing the lighthouse keeper and assistants. Notable for its Gothic Revival architectural details including steeply pitched gable roofs and porches with beveled, bracketed posts.
Museum and Gift Shop
Located at the base of the lighthouse tower, the museum offers exhibits on the lighthouse's history, Fresnel lens technology, and maritime heritage. The gift shop supports restoration efforts through sales.
