Fire Island New York
Harbour Lights #448
 

Located one hour outside of Manhattan, a pristine, narrow stretch of land is designated as the Fire Island National Seashore. Its seclusion and natural beauty have made Fire Island a favorite getaway for city dwellers.

The beautiful barrier strait represented a hazard to mariners attempting to navigate into the New York ports from Europe. To rectify the problem, an 89-foot stone tower was built in 1827 and fitted with 14 oil lamps. Realizing that the site was vital to maritime safety, the Lighthouse Board made the decision to increase the light station’s capability in the 1850’s.

The old tower was torn down and replaced with a 168-foot brick structure that still stands today. At the same time, the two-story Dutch colonial double keeper’s dwelling was built, and both the house and tower were placed on a flagstone terrace – connected by a covered walkway. In November 1858, the First Order Fresnel Lens was lighted.

Fire Island Light originally stood only 200 yards from the western edge of Long Island, but over the years, miles of beach have been added as an anti-erosion measure. The lighthouse sits near the entrance to Robert Moses State Park, and the causeway over to the Park is the best access to the station. Otherwise, Fire Island is accessed by ferry service that runs from many communities that lie along Long Island Sound.

In 1912, the tower was encased in cement and painted with alternating bands of black and white. The First Order lens was removed in 1986 and replaced with an automated system and new optic. The historic 1858 Henri LePaute Lens is in storage at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.

Over the years, the expansion and contraction of the cement placed the tower in poor repair. It was in such bad condition by the 1980s that the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society raised funds for its renovation and, at the same time, to convert the former keeper’s dwelling into a museum. Today, the Society shares responsibility for the lighthouse with the National Park Service. Because the station continues to be an important navigational tool, the USCG retains access to the optic.

Tours are given daily, along with informative historic information about the sentinel – a National Historic Landmark since 1981 – as well as the natural environment of Fire Island and its wildlife. When visiting Fire Island, it is wise to consider where the area may have gotten its name and explore with caution. Seventy percent of the island’s vegetation is poison ivy, which turns bright red in autumn.