Saddleback Ledge ME
Harbour Lights #397

As one former Keeper of Saddleback Ledge, in the Isle Au Haut bay, describes it:" Saddleback is one of the most remote and barren of all Maine lighthouses." So desolate was the light that in the 1920’s the light became a "stag" station; attended by men only.

Built, in 1839, the light was designed by architect and engineer, Alexander Parris, at a cost of $15,000.

Originally, the 4 room Keeper’s quarters were in the conical, granite tower, until sometime before 1868 that an attached wood building was added. The ground level of the building was a boathouse and the two rooms on the second floor for the Keeper and family. Keepers and their families did not have it easy at this remote and austere light. It also should be noted, despite the limited living quarters, at times, the new building was living quarters for the principle Keeper and his Assistants!

Time, the elements and the high seas took their toll on the light and eventually some improvements were made. In 1856, a new lantern and Fifth Order Fresnel lens were installed and in 1881 a fog bell tower was added. Due to the difficulty of landing at Saddleback, a derrick with an arm was added. The arm had a bosun’s chair to get the Keeper and visitors on and off the ledge.

In 1954, Saddleback Ledge was automated; sometime in the 1960’s the Green Berets blew up the Keeper’s dwelling a military assault exercise. The tower still standing as an active aid to navigation.

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