Cape Disappointment Light, Navigation lighthouse at Columbia River entrance, Washington, US.
Cape Disappointment Light is a navigation beacon at the mouth of the Columbia River in Washington that guides ships through dangerous waters. The brick tower holds a fourth-order Fresnel lens that projects light across the ocean to warn approaching vessels of the rocky coast.
The station began operations in 1856 to safely guide ships through one of the Pacific Coast's most treacherous river entrances. Its establishment marked a major shift in maritime safety, as the region had a reputation for numerous wrecks and groundings.
The name reflects an old mistake in European exploration that stuck to this headland, making the site a reminder of colonial-era misunderstandings. Visitors today encounter a working station that reveals how lighthouse keepers adapted their daily routines to the harsh ocean environment.
The site can be visited through Cape Disappointment State Park, with parking located near the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. The grounds are well signposted and walking paths lead directly to viewing areas and the tower base.
The lens system was originally relocated from another lighthouse on the East Coast, showing how equipment was repurposed at new locations. The nightly illumination consumed substantial quantities of kerosene daily, reflecting the logistical challenge of operating in this remote setting.
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