From collection Eastern Illustrating & Publishing Company Collection
LB2019.1.123217
Probably Monhegan Island light station and keeper's dwelling(s). Shortly after Maine became a state in 1820, a call went out for the establishment of a light signal on Monhegan Island, which, because of its unique setting off the coast, was an important landmark for ships sailing down East. A stone lighthouse and one-story keeper's house were built on the highest point of the island, with provisions made for access to the shore, in 1824. By 1850 the lighthouse tower had developed a pronounced lean, caused by frost heave under the foundation. Because this prevented the light from rotating, the tower was replaced for $6000 with the 38-foot tall round granite structure (pictured), fitted with a Fresnel lens. Seven years later a frame dwelling was constructed for the assistant keeper, and in 1874 a frame addition was built on to the stone dwelling. The property is now owned by the Monhegan Historical and Cultural Museum Association. [no title]
