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Photo © Ron Foster

East Point, New Jersey

Harbour Lights Limited Edition #260

Can you imagine building a beautiful lighthouse along the teeming shore of the Delaware Bay, then simply forgetting about its existence? It’s hard to believe that could happen, but the East Point Lighthouse in New Jersey stood dark and abandoned for almost forty years before someone took the initiative to save its future.

Back in 1849, the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment erected East Point, originally known as the Maurice River Lighthouse, on the Delaware Bay. This was a busy shoreline for oyster hunters and fishermen alike and mariners relied on the beacon for navigation. The U.S. Coast Guard took over its operation from 1939 til 1941, but then extinguished the light at the beginning of World War II. The beacon would not shine again until 1980.

During the dark years, East Point fell victim to flagrant vandalism and faired poorly against the harsh winters. With no one to protect her, she was defenseless. Then in 1971, a group of concerned citizens formed the Maurice River Historical Society. They had their work cut for them, especially since a trespasser had just set fire to the structure, almost burning it to the ground.

With nothing but their own two hands and the meager funds from their own pockets, the Maurice River Historical Society set out to rebuild the aging sentinel. They started with the cupola, roof, second floor and spiral iron staircase. They added a deep well, septic system and underground electric and telephone cable. Because of the isolated location, a cottage was moved to the site so that caretakers can live on the premises and guard against mischief.

Finally, after years of working weekends, holidays and vacations, the Historical Society convinced the U.S. Coast Guard to reinstall a beacon in the structure and put East Point back on the list of active navigational aids. On July 2, 1980, their fondest dream came true: East Point Light was shining again.

The lighthouse restoration is far from complete. In fact, the Historical Society has long-range plans to restore the East Point Lighthouse to its original beauty. They invite volunteers of all ages to join them in their efforts.  If you have a few hours to spare or can offer any assistance, please contact the Maurice River Historical Society at (856) 691-5934 or (856) 327-3714.

East Point Lighthouse is the last remaining lighthouse on the New Jersey side of the Delaware Bay.

Photography by Paul L. Brady © Harbour Lights 
June 14, 2005