Point Bolivar Light facts for kids
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| Port Bolivar Lighthouse in 2010 | |
 Point Bolivar Lighthouse
Location in Texas
Point Bolivar Lighthouse
Location in the United States
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| Location | SH 87, Port Bolivar, Texas |
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| Coordinates | 29°22′00″N 94°46′01″W / 29.366787°N 94.766972°W |
| Year first lit | 1852 |
| Deactivated | 1933 |
| Construction | brick covered with cast iron sheets |
| Tower shape | round |
| Height | 116 feet (35 m) |
| Original lens | Fresnel lens |
The Point Bolivar Lighthouse is an old and important lighthouse in Port Bolivar, Texas. It was built in 1872 and helped guide ships for 61 years. In 1933, it was retired, and a new light took over its job.
This lighthouse is actually the second one built in this spot. The first lighthouse was made in 1852 from cast iron. It was taken down during the American Civil War so that Union ships couldn't use it to find their way.
Contents
History of the Lighthouse
The Point Bolivar Lighthouse has a long and interesting history. It has stood strong through many challenges.
Surviving Hurricanes
During the terrible 1900 Galveston hurricane, the lighthouse became a safe place for at least 125 people. It saved their lives from the storm. In 1915, the lighthouse survived another huge hurricane. Winds during that storm reached 126 miles per hour!
The first lighthouse keeper, H. C. Claiborne, retired in 1918. He had seen both of these powerful storms. A new keeper, Captain J. Brooks, took his place.
Later Years and Ownership
From the 1890s until 1942, a railway line ran between the lighthouse and Texas State Highway 87. The lighthouse watched over the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railway.
In 1947, the lighthouse was sold. Even though it is still standing today, people cannot visit inside it. The 1970 movie My Sweet Charlie was filmed at the lighthouse. It starred Patty Duke and Al Freeman Jr..
The United States Department of War took control of the lighthouse in 1935. Later, it was sold to a rancher named Elmer V. Boyt. The lighthouse is still owned by his family today.
The Lighthouse Today
The Point Bolivar Lighthouse has been around for over 150 years. Because of the weather and time, it has turned completely black. Some people even call it "The Haunted Lighthouse" of Bolivar because of its dark look.
The lighthouse is located next to the Houston Audubon Society's Horseshoe Marsh Bird Sanctuary. This is a special place where many birds live and visit.
See also
In Spanish: Faro de Punta Bolívar para niños
