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Photo © Rod
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 Oak Island, North CarolinaHarbour
Lights Limited Edition #240 Since the 16th century, the perilous waters off the North Carolina coast have claimed hundreds of ships and numerous lives. The jagged shoals in these waters develop when the warm Gulf Stream collides with Artic currents, tossing spray into the air and dropping the sand, shells, and sea life at the point of impact. Officials realized that a lighthouse on Oak Island was crucial for safe navigation into the entrance of the Cape Fear River. Completed in 1958, Oak Island Lighthouse was the first sentinel built on the Carolina coast in 54 years. The day-mark pattern is permanent - paint was mixed in with the concrete as the tower was built. The 169-foot silo-style tower can sway three feet during gale force winds of 100 miles per hour. Today, Oak Island Light is part of an active Coast Guard facility with a dwelling reminiscent of life saving stations of days past. At 2,500,000 candlepower, Oak Island Lighthouse is the most brilliant beacon in the United States. Click on each image below to view a larger size in a new window.
Other Oak Island NC Lighthouses by Harbour Lights
[site/styles/BottomPage.htm] Photographs by Paul L.
Brady © Harbour Lights |
