001-0078

Assateague Lighthouse

VLR Listing Date

04/17/1973

NRHP Listing Date

06/04/1973

NRHP Reference Number

73001989

Few buildings more appropriately merit the term landmark than lighthouses. These singular structures stand as conspicuous and necessary focal points along the nation’s coasts. The red and white, festively banded Assateague Lighthouse has operated as a nautical guide for the south end of Assateague Island in Accomack County since it was first lighted on October 1, 1867, replacing an earlier but inadequate tower built in 1831. Standing 129 feet from base to light, the lighthouse is built of brick with tapered walls. Its original light mechanism, a Fresnel lens, imported from France, has been replaced by a modern automatic system. The Fresnel lens is now on display at the Oyster and Maritime Museum in the town of Chincoteague. The Assateague Lighthouse is maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Last Updated: June 2, 2023

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Abbreviations:
VLR: Virginia Landmarks Register
NPS: National Park Service
NRHP: National Register of Historic Places
NHL: National Historic Landmark

For additional information Read

Nomination Form

273-0014

Samuel D. Outlaw Blacksmith Shop

Accomack (County)

296-0001

Saxis Island Historic District

Accomack (County)

001-5158

U.S. Government Lifesaving Stations, Houses of Refuge, and pre-1950 U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboat Stations MPD

(MPD) Multiple Property Document