Craighill Channel Lower Range Front Light

Craighill Channel Lower Range Front Light is a navigation lighthouse standing 39 feet (12 meters) tall in Chesapeake Bay within Baltimore County. The structure features a pyramidal iron frame surrounding a wooden interior and houses two separate light sources: a fixed beacon positioned above the gallery deck for channel guidance and a lantern serving general navigation purposes.

Built in 1873, the lighthouse represented a significant advancement as the first caisson lighthouse constructed in Chesapeake Bay under demanding water conditions. This engineering achievement demonstrated new methods for establishing navigation aids in challenging marine environments.

The lighthouse marks an important passage for maritime activity in Baltimore Harbor and demonstrates the region's connection to sea trade and navigation. Visitors can see how essential this channel has been for ships entering and leaving the port.

The lighthouse is visible from the water and surrounding shoreline near Baltimore Harbor and can be viewed from various vantage points in the area. Access to the structure itself is limited since it remains an active navigation aid in use today.

The lighthouse functions as part of a paired range system with a rear light station, allowing ship captains to align the two lights for precise positioning within the channel. This ingenious setup helps vessels navigate safely through complex waterways without relying solely on modern technology.

Location: Baltimore County

Part of: Craighill Channel range lights

GPS coordinates: 39.18861,-76.39440

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:55