Absecon Lighthouse: A Historical Beacon of New Jersey

Introduction

Absecon Lighthouse is a well-known landmark in Absecon, New Jersey. It is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States and has played a significant role in the maritime history of the region. This blog post will explore the history of the Absecon Lighthouse and provide practical information for visiting this historic site.
 

The History of Absecon Lighthouse

The Absecon Lighthouse was built in 1857 and stands 171 feet tall. It was constructed to help mariners navigate the treacherous waters of Absecon Inlet, which was a busy shipping channel during the 19th century. The lighthouse was designed by George Meade, who later became a Union General in the Civil War. Meade's design included a first-order Fresnel lens, which was state-of-the-art technology at the time.

The Absecon Lighthouse was first lit on January 15, 1857, and was operated by a team of lighthouse keepers. The keepers were responsible for maintaining the light and ensuring that it was visible to ships at sea. The lighthouse was automated in 1933, and the last lighthouse keeper retired in 1936.

During its operation, the Absecon Lighthouse was an important landmark for mariners traveling along the New Jersey coast. The light could be seen from up to 19 miles away, and it helped ships navigate through dangerous waters. The lighthouse also played a role in the development of the Atlantic City area, which was a popular vacation destination during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
 

Visiting Absecon Lighthouse

Today, the Absecon Lighthouse is a popular tourist attraction in New Jersey. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic City skyline and the surrounding area. The lighthouse also features a museum that explores the history of the structure and its role in maritime history.

If you plan to visit the Absecon Lighthouse, here is some practical information to keep in mind:

• Admission fees: Admission to the Absecon Lighthouse is $10 for adults and $6 for children (ages 4-12). Children under 4 are free. Group rates are also available.
• Hours of operation: The lighthouse is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The last climb is at 4:30 pm.
• Parking: There is a small parking lot located next to the lighthouse. Additional parking is available on Pacific Avenue.
   

Conclusion

The Absecon Lighthouse is an important historical landmark in Absecon, New Jersey. Its construction and operation played a significant role in the maritime history of the region, and it continues to be an important tourist attraction today. Whether you're interested in history, or architecture, or just want to enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic City skyline, a visit to the Absecon Lighthouse is a must-do activity for any traveler in the area.