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How was Bodie Island Lighthouse built?
In 1858, Congress approved $25000 to build a new lighthouse with a third order Fresnel lens, a significant upgrade from the original tower. In order to avoid the fate of the first Bodie Island Lighthouse, the second was constructed on a stone foundation resting on piles.
What is the history of Bodie Island Lighthouse?
The lighthouse was originally constructed on Pea Island, south of Oregon Inlet in 1847 but was abandoned 12 years later due to poor foundation. Rebuilt in 1859, the then 80-feet tall lighthouse was blown up by Confederate troops in 1861 fearing that the tower would be used by Union forces during the Civil War.
Does the Bodie lighthouse still work?
The building now serves as a ranger office and visitor center for Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The most recent restoration of the lighthouse itself was completed in 2013. Still a functioning navigational aid, the tower is open for public tours.
When was the Bodie Island Lighthouse finished being built?
1872
Today’s Bodie Island Lighthouse was completed in 1872 on the north side of Oregon Inlet near the northern border of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The familiar black and white horizontal striped structure was partly built of materials leftover from the construction of the newest Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Why is Bodie Island Lighthouse important?
Located just south of Nags Head, the Bodie Island Lighthouse as it stands today is the third such beacon built to help mariners maneuver the coast from Cape Hatteras to Currituck Beach. The original Bodie Island Lighthouse was built in 1847, on the south side of Oregon Inlet in an area known today as Pea Island.
Why was the Bodie Island Lighthouse blown up?
Abandoned twelve years later due to a poor foundation, the lighthouse was rebuilt in 1859, again south of the inlet, but was blown up in 1861 by retreating Confederate troops who feared the Union would use it to their advantage for navigation.
When was the Bodie Island Light Station built?
The US government acquired 15 acres of land from John B. Etheridge (coincidentally a former keeper of the first Bodie Island Lighthouse) on which to construct the new light station on June 13, 1871. Before construction on the tower could begin, construction commenced on temporary dwellings for workers and materials.
Where is the Bodie Island Lighthouse in NC?
Located just south of Nags Head, the Bodie Island Lighthouse as it stands today is the third such beacon built to help mariners maneuver the coast from Cape Hatteras to Currituck Beach. The original Bodie Island Lighthouse was built in 1847, on the south side of Oregon Inlet in an area known today as Pea Island.
Is the Currituck Beach Lighthouse the same as Bodie Island?
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse is considered its architectural twin. At Bodie Island, you have the chance to climb the lighthouse at your own pace and take in the gorgeous natural surroundings of Bodie Island, the Atlantic Ocean, and Pamlico Sound.