Fourth Order Fresnel Lens
Harbour Lights #673
Modeled after Lens at Hereford Inlet NJ
Lighted

Just north of the Cape May Lighthouse at the very tip of New Jersey, the Hereford Inlet proved a dangerous route for mariners and was the site of many shipwrecks. In 1871, Congress appropriated $25,000 for the purchase of a 4th Order Fresnel Lens to be placed in the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse.

The Lens was first lit May 11, 1874. It had a focal plane of 57.5 above sea level, and was visible at 13 nautical miles. The tower has a watch room and shop room for repairing and maintaining the light.

A 1913 storm damaged the foundation of the structure and it was moved to its present site. The light was automated in 1964 and a modern optic was installed in 1986. Following automation, the house was boarded up and used for storage. In 1982, the lighthouse was turned over to the town of North Wildwood, and on July 10, 1983, it was reopened as a museum. The Fresnel Lens was moved to the first floor and the automated beacon left in the tower, still maintained as a private aid to navigation by the USCG.

The magnificent 4th Order Fresnel Lens is the centerpiece of the museum that occupies the old Victorian lighthouse, which is a designated National Historic Site. The museum is operated by the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Commission and is open to the public. For more information contact the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse at 609-522-4520.