Graves Light stands as a sentinel at the entrance to Boston Harbor, perched upon the rocky ledges known as The Graves. Completed in 1905, this lighthouse has played a key role in the safe passage of vessels navigating the treacherous waters of Massachusetts Bay.
Its towering presence not only marks a central navigational point but also embodies the rich maritime heritage of the region.
History of Graves Light
The need for a lighthouse on The Graves became evident in the early 20th century as larger ships began utilizing the newly dredged Broad Sound Channel into Boston Harbor. Prior to the lighthouse’s construction, the area was marked only by signal buoys, which proved insufficient for safe navigation.
In 1902, Congress appropriated funds for the project, and construction commenced in 1903 under the supervision of Royal Luther of Malden, Massachusetts. The lighthouse was completed in 1905, and on September 1 of that year, Keeper Elliott C. Hadley lit the brightest light north of Cape Cod for the first time.
Over the decades, Graves Light has withstood numerous challenges, including severe storms and the natural wear of time. In 1976, the lighthouse was automated, eliminating the need for a resident keeper. By 2012, it was declared federal surplus property and subsequently sold at auction in 2013 to a private owner committed to its restoration.
Graves Light Architecture and Design
Constructed from interlocking granite blocks quarried from Cape Ann in Rockport, Massachusetts, Graves Light is a conical tower standing at 113 feet tall, making it the tallest lighthouse in Boston Harbor. The design is reminiscent of Maine’s Ram Island Ledge Light, featuring a helical glass lantern cast from 44,000 pounds of bronze.
Originally, the lighthouse housed a first-order Fresnel lens, the pinnacle of illumination technology at the time, measuring 12 feet in height and 7 feet in diameter.
Location and Surroundings
Situated approximately 11 miles offshore from downtown Boston, The Graves are the outermost islands in the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. The rocky outcroppings rise about 15 feet above sea level at high tide, posing significant hazards to navigation, which underscores the importance of the lighthouse.
The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, and the area offers striking views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a point of interest for maritime enthusiasts.
Visiting Graves Light
Graves Light is privately owned and is not open to the public. However, its prominent position makes it visible from various vantage points, and several tour operators offer cruises that pass by the lighthouse, providing excellent viewing opportunities.
Getting There
While direct access to Graves Light is restricted, visitors can view the lighthouse from boats. Several companies in the Boston area offer harbor cruises that include close-up views of the lighthouse. Additionally, the lighthouse is visible from certain points on the mainland, such as Fort Revere Park in Hull, Massachusetts.
Visiting Hours
As the lighthouse is not open to the public, there are no visiting hours. However, harbor cruises operate seasonally, typically from late spring through early fall, depending on weather conditions. It’s advisable to check with individual tour operators for specific schedules.
Admission
Costs associated with viewing Graves Light are determined by the tour operators offering harbor cruises. Prices vary depending on the length and nature of the tour. Prospective visitors should contact tour providers for current pricing.
Guided Tours
While there are no guided tours of Graves Light itself, many harbor cruises provide narrated tours that include historical and architectural information about the lighthouse and other landmarks within Boston Harbor. These tours offer valuable insights into the maritime history of the area.
Visitor Guidelines
- Respect all signage and barriers to protect the lighthouse and its surroundings.
- Stay on designated paths to prevent dune erosion.
- Be mindful of changing tides and coastal conditions when visiting the nearby beach.
- Follow local regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Plan Your Visit
While direct access to Graves Light is not possible, viewing it from a harbor cruise offers a unique glimpse into Boston’s nautical history. The lighthouse stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and continues to serve as a vital navigational aid. A visit to Boston Harbor, with its array of historic sites and natural beauty, provides a rich and rewarding experience for all who venture out to explore its waters.