Goat Island Lighthouse

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Goat Island Light

(Newport Harbor Light)

(Newport, Rhode Island)

The existing tower on the north end of Goat Island was first lit in 1842 as a navigational aid to Newport Harbor. It replaced an 1842 lighthouse tower that was considered to be inadequate and which was later moved to Prudence Island.

The octagonal 35-foot tall lighthouse is constructed of granite blocks and stands upon a granite breakwater. In 1864 a new two-story keeper’s dwelling was built and was connected to the lighthouse tower. Being damaged in 1923 by a collision with a submarine, the lighthouse keeper’s dwelling was torn down.

A fourth-order Fresnel lens was installed in 1857 and the light could be seen for 11 miles. The lighthouse was electrified in 1922 and automated in 1963. Today it contains a 250 mm modern optic that shines forth a flashing green light.

In 2000 the lighthouses was leased by the American Lighthouse Foundation of wells Maine.

The lighthouse stands on the property of the Doubletree Islander Hotel and can be easily see on the north end of the island as you approach the hotel.

Directions: Exit Route 138 and head south towards the center of the Newport Harbor. Just before the Marriott Hotel turn right onto the Goat Island Causeway and follow it out to Goat Island. The lighthouse is off to the right, on the north end of the island.

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All pictures are the original work of Rick Totton and are protected under copyright laws.

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