North Carolina’s coastline is adorned with historic lighthouses that have guided mariners for centuries. Recently, three of these beacons—Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and Ocracoke Island Lighthouse—have been recognized among America’s most beautiful coastal landmarks. Their architectural splendor and rich histories continue to captivate visitors from around the world.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Sentinel of the Outer Banks
Standing at an impressive 198.5 feet, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. Located on Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, this iconic structure was completed in 1870 to aid navigation through the treacherous Diamond Shoals, an area notorious for shipwrecks earning it the nickname “Graveyard of the Atlantic.”
The lighthouse’s distinctive black and white spiral design makes it easily recognizable. In 1999, due to severe shoreline erosion, the lighthouse was relocated 2,900 feet inland to protect it from encroaching seas. Today, visitors can climb its 257 steps to the top, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Currituck Beach Lighthouse: The Unpainted Beauty
Completed in 1875, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse stands 162 feet tall in Corolla, North Carolina. Unlike many lighthouses, it was left unpainted, showcasing approximately one million red bricks used in its construction. This design choice sets it apart, earning it the moniker “The Unpainted Beauty.”
The lighthouse was built to fill a 40-mile gap of dark coastline between Cape Henry, Virginia, and Bodie Island, North Carolina, providing crucial guidance to mariners navigating the perilous waters. Today, visitors can ascend its 220 steps to the top, where they can experience breathtaking views of the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse remains operational, with its first-order Fresnel lens casting a beacon visible for 18 nautical miles.
Ocracoke Island Lighthouse: A Historic Beacon
The Ocracoke Island Lighthouse, built in 1823, is the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina and the second oldest in the United States. Standing at 75 feet, its whitewashed brick tower has been a guiding light for sailors for over two centuries. While the lighthouse is not open for climbing, visitors can explore the surrounding grounds and appreciate its historical significance.
Preserving Maritime Heritage
These lighthouses are more than navigational aids; they are monuments to North Carolina’s rich maritime heritage. Organizations like the Outer Banks Conservationists (OBC) have played pivotal roles in restoring and maintaining these structures. For instance, the OBC has been instrumental in preserving the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, ensuring its historical integrity for future generations.
Visiting the Lighthouses
Each lighthouse offers a unique experience:
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Visitors can climb to the top during the operating season, typically from April to October. The nearby Hatteras Island Visitor Center and Museum of the Sea provide insights into the area’s maritime history.
- Currituck Beach Lighthouse: Open seasonally for climbers, this lighthouse also features a museum shop housed in a restored keeper’s house, offering educational exhibits and souvenirs.
- Ocracoke Island Lighthouse: While interior access is restricted, the lighthouse’s exterior and surrounding grounds are open to the public year-round, providing ample photo opportunities and a glimpse into the island’s history.
Conclusion
North Carolina’s lighthouses stand as enduring symbols of the state’s coastal legacy. Their recognition among America’s most beautiful coastal beacons is a testament to their historical significance and architectural beauty. As these lighthouses continue to guide mariners and fascinate visitors, they remind us of the enduring spirit of exploration and the importance of preserving our maritime heritage.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
