Long Island Head Light

Long Island Head Light is a lighthouse at the northeastern tip of Long Island in Boston. The brick structure has a cylindrical shape, white walls, and a black lantern room at the top.

The original stone tower was built in 1819 and replaced in 1844 with a cast iron structure made by the South Boston Iron Company. This construction was a pioneering achievement in American lighthouse technology.

The lighthouse represents maritime navigation advancement in Boston Harbor, recognized by its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

The lighthouse is best viewed from the water since the island is not open to visitors. Photographers and bird-watchers often use boats and viewpoints around the harbor to see it.

The exact placement of the tower was influenced by artillery exercises at nearby Fort Strong, leading to a relocation of the site in 1901. This adjustment shows how military operations shaped the operation of navigation aids.

Location: Boston

Inception: 1819

Height: 16 m

GPS coordinates: 42.33022,-70.95767

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:24