Spring Point Ledge Light facts for kids
 |
|
| Spring Point Ledge Light | |
 Spring Point Ledge Light
Location in Maine
|
|
| Location | Spring Point Ledge, Portland Harbor, South Portland, Maine |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 43°39′07.61″N 70°13′26.06″W / 43.6521139°N 70.2239056°W |
| Year first constructed | 1897 |
| Year first lit | 1897 |
| Automated | 1960 |
| Foundation | Brick/Iron caisson |
| Construction | Cast iron with brick |
| Tower shape | Conical "Spark Plug" |
| Markings / pattern | White on black pier with black lantern |
| Focal height | |
| Original lens | Fifth order Fresnel lens |
| Range | White 12 nautical miles (22 km; 14 mi), Red 10 nautical miles (19 km; 12 mi) |
| Characteristic | Flashing white 6s with two red sectors. |
| Fog signal | HORN: 1 every 10s |
| USCG number | 1-7610 |
The Spring Point Ledge Light is a special lighthouse in South Portland, Maine. It looks like a "spark plug" and stands on a rocky ledge. Its job is to warn ships about a dangerous underwater obstacle. This helps them safely enter Portland Harbor. Today, the lighthouse is right next to the Southern Maine Community College campus.
Contents
History of Spring Point Ledge Light
Why the Lighthouse Was Built
The Spring Point Ledge Light was built in 1897. Before it was there, many steamship companies complained. Their ships often ran aground, meaning they hit the bottom, on the hidden Spring Point Ledge. To solve this problem, the government decided to build a lighthouse.
Congress first set aside $20,000 for the project. However, building the lighthouse was tricky. Storms and poor quality cement caused problems. Because of these issues, the total cost ended up being $45,000.
Early Days and Features
The lighthouse officially started working on May 24, 1897. Its first keeper, William A. Lane, lit the lantern. The light used a special "fifth order Fresnel lens" to make its beam strong and clear. The lighthouse also had a fog bell. This bell would sound twice every 12 seconds to guide ships when it was foggy.
Changes and Public Access
Over the years, the lighthouse got some upgrades. In 1934, it was connected to electricity. This made the light even brighter and more reliable. A big change happened in 1951. Workers built a 900-foot-long breakwater. This long stone wall, made from 50,000 tons of granite, connected the lighthouse to the mainland.
The United States Coast Guard used to own and operate the lighthouse. But in 1998, a group called the Maine Lights Selection Committee approved a change. The Spring Point Ledge Light Trust took over ownership of the tower. The Coast Guard still manages the light and fog signal.
A very exciting day was May 22, 1999. For the first time ever, the Spring Point Ledge Light opened to the public! Now, it's a popular spot for families. People enjoy picnics and watching boats from the breakwater. Fishermen also love spending afternoons there. Near the lighthouse, visitors can explore the old Fort Preble and the Southern Maine Community College campus. There's even a small gift shop.
Historic Recognition
The Spring Point Ledge Light is an important historical site. On January 21, 1988, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as a significant part of American history and culture.
Gallery
-
Spring Point Ledge Light ironwork detail
-
An aerial view from the USCG
