Fairhaven Bridge Light

Fairhaven Bridge Light is a square wooden lighthouse that was mounted on the bridge connecting New Bedford and Fairhaven at the northern end of New Bedford Harbor. The structure functioned as part of a paired light system to guide ships through the harbor entrance.

The lighthouse was built in 1888 following recommendations from inspector I.W.P. Lewis. It was deactivated when its function transferred to Butler Flats Light in 1891.

The lighthouse marked a period of maritime growth in New Bedford when the city developed into a major whaling center of the nineteenth century.

The lighthouse is visible from shore and offers views of the harbor waterways. Visitors can best observe it from public areas along the water where the structure remains in sight from the shoreline.

The lighthouse was unusual for its time because it was mounted on a bridge rather than standing on solid ground. This placement made it a rare construction approach in 19th-century lighthouse design.

Location: Massachusetts

Inception: 1888

GPS coordinates: 41.63940,-70.91690

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07