Tillamook Rock Light

Tillamook Rock Light stands on a basalt outcrop two kilometers off the Oregon coast and reaches 19 meters above the Pacific. The decommissioned beacon uses a combination of concrete, basalt, brick, and iron to resist powerful ocean forces.

Congress approved construction in 1878 and a crew needed 500 days to complete work on the stormy rock in January 1881. Builders fought heavy waves and dangerous conditions throughout the entire construction period.

Local mariners gave this station its nickname 'Terrible Tilly' after hearing stories from keepers who lived through months of crashing waves and wind. Their daily routines included climbing outside to clean lenses while spray soaked the entire structure.

The best view of the beacon comes from the Oregon Coast Trail between Ecola State Park and Seaside, especially at Indian Beach. Clear weather is important because fog and rain often limit visibility.

This project cost more than any other West Coast lighthouse at the time because workers had to transport every stone and iron piece by boat in dangerous conditions. Most deliveries reached the rock platform only during brief periods of calmer seas.