Welcome to Hog Island Shoal Light, a significant maritime landmark in the Ocean Township area. This lighthouse, built in 1901, stands as a sturdy sentinel guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters of Narragansett Bay. The Hog Island Shoal Light was established during a time when maritime navigation was crucial for the booming trade and fishing industries in New England. Its construction was part of a broader initiative by the United States Lighthouse Board to improve safety and efficiency in American coastal waters.
The lighthouse’s unique sparkplug design makes it a standout. Originally, it housed a fourth-order Fresnel lens, a marvel of 19th-century engineering that focused light into a powerful beam visible for miles. This light played an essential role during the World Wars, helping to ensure the safe passage of military and merchant vessels.
Over the years, dedicated lighthouse keepers braved harsh weather conditions to maintain the light, a task that required constant vigilance and dedication. Among these keepers, one notable figure was Keeper John D. H. Brown, who served with distinction, ensuring the light never faltered.
Automation came in 1963, marking the end of an era for the keepers but ensuring the light continued its vital role in navigation. Today, while technology has advanced, the Hog Island Shoal Light remains an iconic piece of maritime history, a reminder of the diligent efforts that kept seafarers safe for over a century.
