Ocracoke Lighthouse, Ocracoke Island, NC
It is the oldest North Carolina lighthouse still in continuous service and the second oldest lighthouse in the U.S. in continuous service, Boston Light on Little Brewster Island was the first lighthouse built in the United States in 1716.
The original Ocracoke Lighthouse was built in 1794. In 1822, the federal government purchased 2 acres at the end of Ocracoke Island for $50 as the site for the new lighthouse. It was finished in 1823 where the tower stands today. Originally lit by whale oil, it was electrified in the early 1900’s. In 1988, it was preserved as a National Historic Landmark. The lighthouse is 75 feet tall. With its aid, yesterday's sailing vessels safely navigated the channels. Today, fishing and pleasure boats pass within its view. Time, however, has not changed the often tricky character of the shoal-ridden inlet. The historic lighthouse still stands by to make safe the waters.
© Yulia Basova
Copyright for this gallery photo belongs solely to Yulia Basova. Images may not be copied, downloaded, or used in any way without the express, written permission of the photographer.