Événement

Little Brewster/Boston Light - Island Sunset Adventure, Boston Harbor

The oldest site of a light house in the 'new world', Little Brewster Island will be our destination for a Sunset Adventure this day!

Little Brewster Island & Boston Light marks a main shipping entrance to Boston HarborNew England's busiest portwhich has been commercially active since the 17th century. Established in 1716, the original stone tower was the first lighthouse built in North America. The British destroyed Boston Light during the Revolutionary War in 1776. Rebuilt in 1783, the present light tower is recognized as the Nation's second oldest. Other separate station buildings still standing on the site are the 1876 fog signal building, 1884 keeper's dwelling, 1884 cistern building, 1889 oil house and 1889 boathouse. The buildings are clustered on the three-acre island and connected by foot paths. Attached to the base is an enclosed workroom that provides access to the tower. By 1809, six heavy iron bands were placed around the tower to strengthen it. The circular, iron staircase (76 stairs) was installed in 1844. Further alterations occurred in 1859, when the height of the tower was increased from 75 feet to 89 feetl, and a new lantern room and second-order Fresnel lens were added. Since that time, no major structural changes have been made. As had been done during the War of 1812, the Boston Light was dimmed during World War I, and it was completely extinguished during World War II to reduce usefulness to enemy ships. Electrified in 1948 and automated in 1998, Boston Light still employs the original Fresnel lens. Boston Harbor Light Station was designated a National Historic Landmark in January 1964. Preservation groups appealed to Congress and the U.S. Coast Guard, and funding was appropriated to keep U.S. Coast Guard staff at the light station, thereby making it the last manned light in the Nation. (Text from the National Park Service)

Further details:

Departs Rowes Wharf Water Transport, 60 Rowes Wharf Boston, MA 02110.
No refunds, trip canceled only by the captain, will run rain or shine. Bring your own refreshments and drinks, as well as shoes that may get wet. A moderate activity level and stability is necessary for this trip as the boat will have a beach landing, and the island has rocky/uneven paths and walking areas. To learn more about Rainsford Island visit: http://fbhi.org/rainsford-island.html