Observations and Reactions:
I
have never really visited Portland Head Light before. I’ve walked past it
countless times as I was always more interested in the buildings and sites of
Fort Williams. The light house appears to be in better condition than the rest
of Fort Williams but I guess this is because it is maintained by the US Coast
Guard and the town of Cape Elizabeth. As I walked around the light house I
noticed that it has the best views of the surrounding ocean, better than
anywhere else in the park. This would make sense as it is a light house and it
makes sense for it to be visible. There was a painting on the rocks indicating
the event of when Annie C. Maguire ran aground and I found this a little eerie.
The
parking lot was filled with cars (even though the museum is not open for
another three weeks). About half of the cars were from out of state. Perhaps
this is proof that when those from away think of Maine also think of the iconic
light house. As an adopted Mainer I can visit the site for free whenever I want
but I don’t for some reason. When I go to visit the fort in the future I will
definitely make sure to visit the light house.
Historical Background:
Portland
Head Light is an active aid to navigation for the United States Coast Guard. Portland
Head Light’s construction was completed in January of 1791. A combination of
funds from Massachusetts and United States Congress enabled its construction.
Originally, the lighthouse was seventy-two feet tall and lit by whale oil
lanterns. However, over the course of its lifetime, additions were added to the
light house. The ‘Keeper’s Quarters’ was constructed in 1790 and replaced in 1816
in order to fit the Keeper’s family. In addition to adding twenty feet to the
total height of the light house two new lenses were installed in 1864 and 1865 The
Keeper’s Quarters was again reconstructed in 1891. In 1989 the light house
became automated.
Over
the years there has been only one outstanding event that has occurred at
Portland Head Light. In 1886 the Annie C. Maguire ran aground at Portland Head
Light and, with the aid of the Keeper and his family, the crew and captain of
the vessel were helped to safety.
Also,
since its construction, the ownership of the light house has changed.
Originally, it was the responsibility of the United States Department of the Treasury.
In 1852 it was placed under control of the US Lighthouse Board and in 1939 the
Coast Guard became in charge of the navigational aspects of the light house. 1n
1993 the light house was given to the town of Cape Elizabeth. However, despite
the fact that Cape Elizabeth owns the property, the US Coast Guard still
maintains the navigational aspects of the light house.
Portland
Head Light is in Fort Williams Park and is currently the most photographed
lighthouse in America. It is a symbol of Maine as it is a tourist attraction
and if you Google ‘Maine’ the first page of images is filled with pictures of
the light house.
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| View from the parking lot. |
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| All the Keepers of the lighthouse until it became automatic in 1989. |
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| Chad's hand and lighthouse. |
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| Proof of Visit. My hat on the original bell. |
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| The front of the Keeper's Quarters |
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| My friend Chad, who I ran into, is seen ruining my pictures. |
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| When leaving the lighthouse this sign presents Fort Williams to the visitors. |
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