Welcome to Yaquina Head Lighthouse, a towering sentinel along the Oregon Coast with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. This iconic lighthouse was completed in 1873 by the U.S. Lighthouse Board, standing proudly on Yaquina Head, a mile-long peninsula of Columbia basalt. It was built to serve the growing maritime industry, ensuring the safety of ships navigating the rugged coastline. The lighthouse, with its 93-foot tall tower, is the tallest on the Oregon Coast and was strategically placed to guide ships far out to sea, with its light visible up to 19 miles away. The journey to establish Yaquina Head Lighthouse was fraught with challenges. Construction began in 1871, but winter storms and treacherous seas delayed progress. Materials had to be transported from San Francisco and Philadelphia, often requiring arduous overland journeys from Newport. Despite these setbacks, the lighthouse was eventually completed, and on August 20, 1873, Fayette Crosby, the first head keeper, lit its first lantern. This was a pivotal moment, marking the lighthouse’s role as a crucial navigational aid in the region. The light was powered by a first-order Fresnel lens, which was crafted in France and transported across the Isthmus of Panama. Originally fueled by lard oil, the lantern later switched to mineral oil in 1888, and the lighthouse was electrified in the early 1930s. Over the years, the lighthouse has withstood the harsh coastal weather, with improvements such as a high fence added in 1880 to protect against windblown rocks. The lighthouse keepers played a vital role in maintaining the light and the facility. With no fog signal due to the area’s clear weather, their focus was on keeping the light operational and managing supplies delivered by lighthouse tenders. They also cultivated gardens, raised livestock, and became integral members of the coastal community. Today, the lighthouse is a part of the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Visitors can explore its history through educational programs and exhibits at the interpretive center, which enhance the understanding of the area’s maritime heritage and its natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, Yaquina Head Lighthouse offers a glimpse into the past and a breathtaking view of the Oregon Coast.
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