Great Point Lighthouse, Nantucket, Massachusetts

By the late 1700's Nantucket had become the whaling capital of the world. The beach overlooking the northern tip of the island was one of the busiest passages on the East coast. The effort to erect a tower for shipping needs was delayed by the advent of the Revolutionary War. Shortly afterwards, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts undertook the building of the Great Point Lighthouse.

In 1789 as part of the establishment of the Federal government under the US Constitution, the lighthouse was deeded to the Federal government. Eventually a keepers residence was built at the light, making life for the Keeper a bit more bearable. However, the home burned down in a fire in 1812. The Keeper once again was forced to make the long trek to the light.

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In 1789 as part of the establishment of the Federal government under the US Constitution, the lighthouse was deeded to the Federal government. Eventually a keepers residence was built at the light, making life for the Keeper a bit more bearable. However, the home burned down in a fire in 1812. The Keeper once again was forced to make the long trek to the light.

Great Point

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Great Point Lighthouse, Nantucket, Massachusetts