Rose Island Light facts for kids
Quick facts for kids  |
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 Rose Island Light
Location in Rhode Island
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| Location | Newport, Rhode Island |
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| Coordinates | 41°29′43.68″N 71°20′33.78″W / 41.4954667°N 71.3427167°W |
| Year first constructed | 1870 |
| Year first lit | 1870 |
| Deactivated | 1971-1992 |
| Foundation | Masonry |
| Construction | Wood |
| Tower shape | Octagonal |
| Markings / pattern | White tower on dwelling |
| Height | 35 feet (11 m) |
| Focal height | 48 feet (15 m) |
| Original lens | 6th order Fresnel lens, 1870 |
| Characteristic | Flashing white, 6 seconds |
| Fog signal | none |
| Admiralty number | J0543 |
| ARLHS number | USA-703 |
| USCG number | 1-17857 |
The Rose Island Light is a historic lighthouse located on Rose Island in Narragansett Bay. This island is near Newport, Rhode Island, in the United States. Built in 1870, the lighthouse helps guide boats safely. Today, a group called The Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation takes care of it.
Contents
History of Rose Island Light
The Rose Island Light has an interesting past, from its early days to its important restoration.
Building the Lighthouse
The Rose Island Light was built in 1870. It was designed by a Vermont architect named Albert Dow. His design was so good that it won an award! This lighthouse is one of several in New England that share a similar design.
Sister Lighthouses
You can find other lighthouses that look like Rose Island Light. They are often called "sister" lighthouses. Some of these include Sabin Point, Pomham Rocks, Esopus Meadows Light, and Colchester Reef.
Lighthouse Location
The lighthouse stands on top of a strong base. This base is part of Fort Hamilton. This old fort was built a long time ago, between 1798 and 1800.
From Active Use to Abandonment
For many years, the Rose Island Light helped ships navigate the waters. However, things changed in 1970. The Newport Bridge was built nearby. Because of the bridge, the lighthouse was no longer needed to guide ships. So, it was abandoned.
Bringing the Light Back
The lighthouse sat empty and started to fall apart. But in 1984, a special group was formed. This group was called the Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation. Their goal was to fix up the old lighthouse. The City of Newport had received the lighthouse for free from the U.S. government.
National Recognition
The foundation worked hard to restore the building. In 1987, the U.S. government recognized its importance. They added the lighthouse to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes places that are important to American history.
Relighting the Beacon
Thanks to the foundation's efforts, the lighthouse was relit in 1992. It now serves as a private aid to navigation. This means it helps guide boats, even though it's not officially operated by the government anymore.
Visiting Rose Island Lighthouse
Today, the Rose Island Light is a popular place for visitors. It offers a unique experience for those who want to learn about lighthouses.
How to Get There
You can only reach the lighthouse by boat. This makes the trip an exciting adventure!
Become a Lighthouse Keeper
The Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation offers a special program. For a fee, visitors can stay overnight as a guest. You can even spend a whole week as a "lighthouse keeper"! During this time, you help with the chores needed to keep the lighthouse in good shape. It's a great way to experience history firsthand.
