Burnt Coat Harbor Light, Maritime lighthouse at Hockamock Head, Swan's Island, Maine.
Burnt Coat Harbor Light is a lighthouse station on Swan's Island, Maine, consisting of four buildings on 3 acres of coastal land. The complex includes a 10-meter tower, keeper's house, bell house, and oil house.
The lighthouse was built in 1872 to guide ships through the Western Way, helping vessels safely navigate this dangerous coastal area. It gained recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 as an important maritime landmark.
The keeper's house hosts exhibitions during summer months that document the island's maritime past through artifacts and local artwork. These displays reflect how this place shaped the lives of Swan's Island residents.
The site offers free access to buildings, coastal trails, and beaches with regular tower tours available throughout the week. Bring appropriate clothing for coastal weather, as conditions can change quickly on this exposed headland.
The facility now operates partly on solar power after installing an LED lighting system in 2017, replacing the original gas and candle lights. This demonstrates how historic sites can employ modern technology while continuing to serve their original navigation purpose.
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