Cape Neddick Lighthouse by Greg Marlett

Cape Neddick Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. In fact, when the Voyager II was launched into space in 1977 it took a variety of pictures of the earth's natural features as well as man-made structures, just in case they ran into some extraterrestrials who were interested in learning about life on earth. And guess what was among the photographs? Yes, a picture of the Cape Neddick Lighthouse!

The Cape Neddick Lighthouse, which is also called "Nubble Light," is located on Nubble Island about 200 yards off Cape Neddick Point. Cape Neddick Point is at the north end of Long Beach in the village of York Beach. While this tower is inaccessible it is very easily seen from Sohier Park on the mainland, which makes it easy with telescopes, lots of parking, a welcome center, and a gift shop.

The Cape Neddick Lighthouse, which is lined with brick and sheathed in cast iron, was built in 1879. It is 41 feet tall, and one of its distinguishing features is the walkway railing around the lantern room, which is decorated with brass replicas of the lighthouse. It is rare for lighthouses to have decorations, and the origins of this one are unknown. The original mold, however, was found in a Coast Guard warehouse. The Cape Neddick Lighthouse also has a very sweet keeper's cottage complete with gingerbread trim.

Fun stories about this lighthouse and its inhabitants abound, including one resident, a 19-pound cat, who regularly enjoyed swimming across the channel to socialize with mainland friends!
During the holidays the lighthouse is decorated with small white lights, and a Christmas tree can be seen in the main window facing the park. The lighthouse and keeper's house are also lit for a short period during the summer tourist season.

Year Established: 1879

Year Automated: 1987

Shape: Cylindrical

Height: 41 ft.

Characteristic: A red flash that lasts six seconds, then is off for six seconds. Fog signal: one blast every 10 seconds.

Accessibility: The light is not accessible to the public but can be easily seen from the nearby mainland at Sohier Park in York Beach.

By Greg Marlett http://gregsebo.blogspot.com

Copyright 2007 All rights reserved, no duplication or use without expressed permission of the author.