Beavertail Lighthouse stands situated at the southern tip of Conanicut Island in Jamestown, Rhode Island. As the third lighthouse ever established in the Thirteen Colonies — after Boston Light (1716) and Brant Point Light (1746) — Beavertail has guided vessels into Narragansett Bay since 1749, marking the entrance with its steadfast light.
Nestled within Beavertail State Park, the lighthouse offers visitors a glimpse into the rich nautical heritage of the region and panoramic views of the rugged New England coastline.
History of Beavertail Lighthouse
The origins of Beavertail Lighthouse date back to 1749, when a 58-foot wooden tower was erected under the direction of noted Colonial architect Peter Harrison. This initial structure burned down in 1753 and was replaced by a stone tower in 1755 under Harrison’s continued direction.
During the American Revolutionary War, British forces, retreating from Newport in 1779, burned the lighthouse and removed its lantern apparatus, leaving the bay without its guiding light for the remainder of the conflict. The tower was repaired in 1783–84 and continued in service until 1856. The present granite tower, standing 64 feet tall, was first lit on October 20, 1856 and has since withstood the test of time. It was automated in 1989 and continues to serve as an active aid to navigation. Beavertail was also home to its only female keeper, Demaris Weeden, who took over after her husband’s death and served for nine years until the new tower’s completion in 1857.
Beavertail Lighthouse Architecture and Design
The current lighthouse is a square granite structure, measuring 10 feet on each side and rising to a height of 64 feet. Originally equipped with a third-order Fresnel lens, the lighthouse now utilizes a modern VRB-25 optical system to project its beacon.
The design of the lighthouse, characterized by its robust granite construction and classic New England architectural elements, reflects the practical and aesthetic considerations of mid-19th-century lighthouse engineering.
Notable Firsts
Beavertail was the site of pioneering lighthouse experiments. In 1817–18, David Melville of Newport tested the first known use of gas as a lighthouse illuminant anywhere in the world, producing gas by heating tar and rosin. In 1829, Beavertail became the first lighthouse in America to use a bell as a fog signal. The station served as a U.S. Lighthouse Board fog-signal testing site for over 40 years following the 1856 tower construction.
Location and Surroundings
Perched on Beavertail Point within Beavertail State Park, the lighthouse offers visitors sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the entrance to Narragansett Bay. The park’s 153 acres feature a rocky shoreline, diverse marine life, and scenic hiking trails, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The area’s unique geology and coastal ecosystems provide ample opportunities for exploration and education. Visitors can also see the foundation of the original 1749 tower, located about 100 feet in front of the current tower. Exposed during the 1938 hurricane, the foundation was restored in 2012 and capped in 2013 with a concrete compass rose.
Visiting Beavertail Lighthouse
A visit to Beavertail Lighthouse offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational activities.
Getting There
Beavertail Lighthouse is located within Beavertail State Park in Jamestown, Rhode Island. From Newport, visitors can reach the lighthouse by crossing the Claiborne Pell/Newport Bridge to Conanicut Island and following signs to the park. Adequate parking is available on-site, and the area is accessible by car, bicycle, or on foot.
Visiting Hours
The lighthouse grounds and Beavertail State Park are open to the public year-round from sunrise to sunset. The Beavertail Lighthouse Museum, housed in the assistant keeper’s quarters, operates seasonally. For current hours and information, visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s official website or contact the park directly. Tower climbs are scheduled throughout the summer, so be sure to check their schedule before visiting!
Admission
Access to the park and lighthouse grounds is free of charge. While there is no admission fee for the museum, donations are appreciated to support ongoing preservation efforts and educational programs.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of the lighthouse and museum are available during operating hours, offering insights into the lighthouse’s history, architecture, and role in maritime navigation. Visitors can also explore the natural features of the park through self-guided tours along its various trails and coastal areas.
Visitor Guidelines
- Respect all signage and barriers — the tower remains active Coast Guard property.
- Stay on designated trails to protect the rocky coastal habitat.
- Use caution on the rocky shoreline — rocks can be slippery, especially when wet.
- Watch for changing tides and waves — the point is exposed to the open Atlantic.
Plan Your Visit
Beavertail Lighthouse and State Park offer a unique combination of historical significance and natural splendor. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a serene coastal retreat, a visit to this iconic lighthouse provides a memorable experience that captures the essence of Rhode Island’s maritime heritage.