Fenwick Island Light facts for kids

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Delaware, United States. It stands right on the border between Delaware and Maryland. This important structure was built in 1858, making it the oldest lighthouse in the state of Delaware. It has guided ships safely along the coast for many years.

Building the Fenwick Island Lighthouse

The idea for the Fenwick Island Lighthouse began in 1856. The United States Congress set aside $25,000 to build it. On January 11, 1858, a piece of land, about ten acres, was bought for only $50.

The lighthouse was finished on December 29, 1858. However, its light did not shine until August 1, 1859. U.S. Army Captain William F. Raynolds oversaw the building process.

Lighthouse Design and Features

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is 87 feet tall. It is made of sturdy brick. Inside, there is a spiral staircase made of cast iron. The light itself uses a special lens called a third-order Fresnel lens. This type of lens helps make the light very bright and focused.

When it was first built, the lighthouse was in a very quiet, isolated area. It was on a small piece of land in the southernmost part of Delaware. This spot was right at the Maryland state line. In 1940, the lighthouse became automated. This meant it could operate on its own without a keeper always being there.

Saving the Lighthouse

In 1978, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse was turned off. It stayed dark for several years. But many people wanted to save this important landmark. A public effort began to bring the lighthouse back to life.

Because of these efforts, the lighthouse was given to the State of Delaware. Then, in 1982, its light shone brightly once more.

Restoration and Rededication

By 1997, the lighthouse was getting old and needed repairs. People worked hard to raise money for its restoration. A full restoration means fixing and cleaning everything to make it look new again.

The lighthouse was rededicated in July 1998. This celebrated its return to full working order.

Visiting the Lighthouse Today

Today, the State of Delaware owns the Fenwick Island Lighthouse. A group called the "New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse" helps take care of it. This group is a private, non-profit organization.

The lighthouse is no longer in an isolated spot. It is now surrounded by houses and businesses. Visitors can go inside the base of the lighthouse. There, they can see a small museum and a gift shop. However, visitors are not allowed to climb to the top of the lighthouse.

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. This list includes important places in the United States that are worth preserving.