Portland Head Light, Maine Weather Cams
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Portland Head Light: Maine’s Oldest and Most Iconic Lighthouse
Portland Head Light, Maine Weather Cams. Perched on the rocky cliffs of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, Portland Head Light is one of the most famous and historic lighthouses in the United States. Completed in 1791, it is the oldest lighthouse in Maine, standing as a beacon for mariners navigating the entrance to Portland Harbor.
The Vision of George Washington
The idea for Portland Head Light was first proposed in the 1780s, when Portland was a bustling maritime hub. Recognizing the need for a lighthouse to guide ships safely into Casco Bay, President George Washington allocated $1,500 for its construction in 1787.
Local masons Jonathan Bryant and John Nichols were hired to build the tower using rubble stone, sourced from nearby fields and shores. The lighthouse was originally planned to be 58 feet tall, but upon completion, it was raised to 72 feet to improve visibility.
Early Years and Lighthouse Keepers
Portland Head Light was first lit on January 10, 1791, using whale oil lamps. The first keeper, Captain Joseph Greenleaf, was appointed by Washington himself. Greenleaf lived in the keeper’s house and was responsible for maintaining the light, ensuring safe passage for ships.
In 1855, the lighthouse was upgraded with a fourth-order Fresnel lens, significantly improving its brightness and range. Over the years, the tower underwent several modifications, including height adjustments and structural reinforcements.
The Civil War and Maritime Tragedies
During the Civil War, Portland Head Light played a crucial role in protecting Portland Harbor from Confederate raiders. The lighthouse remained a vital navigational aid, guiding merchant and military vessels through the treacherous waters of the North Atlantic.
One of the most tragic shipwrecks near Portland Head Light occurred in 1864, when the British ship Bohemian struck a reef, resulting in the deaths of 40 immigrants. This disaster led to further improvements in Maine’s lighthouse system.
Automation and Preservation
Portland Head Light was automated in 1989, eliminating the need for a full-time keeper. Today, the United States Coast Guard maintains the beacon and foghorn, while the former keeper’s house has been transformed into a maritime museum within Fort Williams Park.
The lighthouse remains a beloved landmark, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Its white conical tower, standing 80 feet tall, continues to shine as a symbol of Maine’s maritime heritage.
Portland Head Light in Popular Culture
Portland Head Light has been featured in countless paintings, photographs, and literary works. Poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a native of Portland, was inspired by the lighthouse and referenced it in his poem The Lighthouse.
The lighthouse’s dramatic setting, with waves crashing against the rugged cliffs, makes it one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.
Looking Ahead
Today, Portland Head Light remains a historic treasure, preserving Maine’s rich maritime history. Whether admired from afar or explored up close, it continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty and enduring legacy.
For more information, visit the Portland Head Light, Maine official website