Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse, Maine Weather Cams
Burnt Coat Harbor View Cam
Western Way Entrance Cam
View of the Gulf of Maine looking towards Heron Island Cam
Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse: A Beacon of Maine’s Maritime Legacy
Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse, Maine Weather Cams. Nestled on Swan’s Island, Maine, Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse has stood as a guiding light for mariners since its construction in 1872. Located on Hockamock Head, the lighthouse marks the entrance to Burnt Coat Harbor, a historically significant refuge for sailors navigating the waters of Blue Hill Bay.
Origins and Construction
The lighthouse was authorized in 1871, and construction was completed the following year. Initially, the station featured two range lights, designed to help vessels safely enter the harbor. However, complaints about the range lights being confusing led to the removal of the front light in 1884, leaving only the rear tower.
The lighthouse itself is a square brick structure, standing 32 feet (9.8 meters) tall, with a ten-sided lantern chambersurrounded by an iron walkway. The keeper’s house, built alongside the tower, is an L-shaped wood-frame structure, finished in white clapboards. Additional buildings, including a bell house (built in 1911) and an oil house (built in 1895), were added to support the station’s operations.
Maritime Importance
Burnt Coat Harbor has long been recognized as one of the best small harbors in Eastern Maine, offering shelter from storms. The lighthouse played a crucial role in ensuring safe passage for vessels, particularly those involved in fishing, lobstering, and trade. The harbor’s strategic location made it a vital stop for ships traveling along the Maine coast.
Automation and Decline
Like many lighthouses, Burnt Coat Harbor Light was automated in 1975, eliminating the need for a resident keeper. Without regular maintenance, the station fell into disrepair, with boarded-up buildings and deteriorating structures. The lighthouse remained operational, but its historical significance was at risk of being lost.
Restoration and Preservation
In 1993, the Town of Swan’s Island took ownership of the lighthouse from the U.S. Coast Guard, following congressional approval. Efforts to restore the site began in 2006, with funding provided by the town and various grants. The restoration project focused on preserving the keeper’s house, tower, and bell house, ensuring that the lighthouse remained a historical landmark.
Today, the keeper’s house serves as a museum and art gallery, open to visitors during the summer months. The lighthouse tower is also accessible for climbing on select days, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waters.
Legacy and Modern-Day Significance
Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse continues to be a cherished symbol of Maine’s maritime heritage. Its presence on Hockamock Head serves as a reminder of the region’s rich history, from its early days as a navigational aid to its modern role as a preserved landmark. Whether admired from the shore or explored up close, the lighthouse remains a beacon of resilience and history.
For more information, visit the Acadia National Park, Maine official website.
Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse, Maine Weather Cams
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Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse, Maine Weather Cams