Brandywine Shoal New Jersey
Harbour Lights #295

In 1823, a lightship was stationed on the eastern edge of the Brandywine Shoal. While no drawings have been found, it is known that this vessel was 72-feet long, had two masts with fixed white lights, and a hand-operated bell. Anchored one mile west of the Shoal, she served until 1850, when she was transferred to Minot’s Ledge, Massachusetts.

An 1838 report described the lightship’s deteriorating condition and its need for a major overhaul. "Fifteen years old; very much out of order, requires thorough repairs" Rather than expend more money to bring the old ship up to satisfactory condition, it was decided to undertake a seemingly impossible task.

The Brandywine Shoal in Delaware Bay made a precarious site for a lighthouse structure. The first tower had been constructed in 1828, but was demolished by storms and replaced by the lightship. It wasn’t until 1850 that a second tower was attempted. Because of the sandy conditions, a screw pile construction was deemed necessary. At the time, this was regarded as "breakthrough technology" and it became the first screw pile lighthouse in the United States. Despite harsh weather, the tower served for more than 60 years.

In 1914, the old sentinel was replaced with a new conical structure that would require less maintenance. Built on a caisson of reinforced concrete and lit on October 14, 1914, the light station -- sometimes listed as being in Delaware rather than in New Jersey -- remains an important aid to navigation and was the last lighthouse in the Delaware Bay to have a keeper on board. It was automated in 1974.

Sitting only 45-feet high, the tower boasted a Third Order Fresnel Lens. In recent years, the optic was converted to solar power and the lens was loaned to Tuckerton Seaport for their museum.

Under management of the USCG, Brandywine Shoal Light is not open to the public, but its beauty and importance is still appreciated by lighthouse enthusiasts. Brandywine Shoal proudly shines its light for mariners in the Bay, whether they regard it as in New Jersey or in Delaware -- the flame burns on!