Watch Hill Lighthouse, situated in the picturesque village of Watch Hill in Westerly, Rhode Island, stands as a testament to the region’s rich maritime heritage. Perched on a peninsula overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Fishers Island Sound, this historic beacon has guided mariners for over two centuries, marking the eastern entrance to the sound and warning of the hazardous reefs nearby.
History of Watch Hill Lighthouse
The origins of Watch Hill Lighthouse trace back to 1745 when the Rhode Island colonial government established a watchtower and beacon during King George’s War to monitor naval activities. This initial structure was destroyed in a storm in 1781.
Recognizing the strategic importance of the location, President Thomas Jefferson authorized the construction of a new lighthouse in 1806, with the original wooden lighthouse completed in 1808. By the 1850s, due to erosion and structural concerns, a more durable granite lighthouse was constructed in 1856, which remains the current structure.
Throughout its history, the lighthouse has witnessed significant maritime events, including the tragic sinking of the steamer Metis in 1872, leading to the loss of 130 lives. In recognition of heroic rescue efforts during such events, lighthouse keeper Captain Jared Starr Crandall was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 1873. Following his death, his widow, Sally Ann Crandall, became the first female keeper at the station, serving until 1888.
Watch Hill Lighthouse Architecture and Design
The Watch Hill Lighthouse is a 45-foot-tall square granite tower, seamlessly integrated with a two-story brick keeper’s dwelling built in 1935. The tower features a white lantern with a distinctive red roof.
Originally equipped with a fourth-order Fresnel lens, the lighthouse now utilizes a modern VRB-25 lighting system, maintaining its role in navigation with an alternating red and white light every 2.5 seconds, visible up to 14 nautical miles.
The site also includes auxiliary structures such as an oil house constructed in 1855-1856 and a fog signal building from the early 20th century, underscoring its longstanding operational significance.
Location and Surroundings
Nestled on a peninsula in southeastern Rhode Island, Watch Hill Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Fishers Island Sound. The surrounding area is characterized by rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and the charming village of Watch Hill, known for its historic homes and upscale boutiques.
Nearby attractions include the Napatree Point Conservation Area, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, and the Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round, one of the oldest continuously operating carousels in the United States.
Visiting Watch Hill Lighthouse
A visit to Watch Hill Lighthouse offers a blend of scenic beauty and historical intrigue.
Getting There
The lighthouse is accessible by foot via a private road. Visitors can park in the village of Watch Hill and enjoy a leisurely walk along Lighthouse Road, which winds past picturesque homes and coastal vistas. Vehicles are permitted on-site only for handicapped individuals and senior citizens.
Visiting Hours
The lighthouse grounds are open to the public daily from 8:00 AM to sunset throughout the year. The on-site museum, housed in the former oil house, operates seasonally, welcoming visitors on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM during July and August, extending through the week after Labor Day.
Admission
Access to both the lighthouse grounds and the museum is free of charge, offering an enriching experience without cost.
Guided Tours
While formal guided tours are not regularly scheduled, the museum provides interpretive exhibits, including the original fourth-order Fresnel lens and historical artifacts, offering insights into the lighthouse’s storied past.
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
Embarking on a trip to Watch Hill Lighthouse is a journey through maritime history set against the backdrop of Rhode Island’s stunning coastline. Whether you’re captivated by historic architecture, scenic landscapes, or the allure of the sea, the lighthouse and its environs offer a memorable experience for all visitors.