Pomham Rocks Light

Pomham Rocks Light is an octagonal wooden lighthouse with a white exterior and black lantern tower, standing about 12 meters tall on a square stone foundation. Its red roof and compact structure rest directly on the rocks in the middle of the Providence River.

The station began operations in 1871 with a sixth-order Fresnel lens displaying a fixed white light initially. The light changed to red in 1872, making it easier to distinguish from other beacons in the busy river.

The name Pomham comes from a Narragansett Indian sachem who once held power in this region. The two rocky islets connected by a natural bar at low tide create a distinctive landmark in the river.

The best view comes from the East Bay Bike Path, which runs roughly 300 meters away on the eastern shore. You can also see it from the water near Johnson and Wales University on the opposite bank.

In 1932, an emergency appendectomy was performed inside the lighthouse when the keeper's daughter Marjorie fell ill. A doctor could not reach the tower in time, so the operation had to be performed right there on the rocks.

Location: East Providence

Inception: 1871

Height: 12 m

Operator: U.S. Coast Guard

Address: PO 15121, Riverside, RI 02915, USA

Website: https://pomhamrockslighthouse.org

GPS coordinates: 41.77763,-71.36952

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:44