Block Island Lighthouses

{ 7.27.2019 } { Block Island Experience }

History is more than books and lectures. It’s all around us. Everywhere we go, there’s something interesting to see and do. Something to learn from. Visiting historical buildings and landmarks can be an incredible educational opportunity. It transports you to another time decades and even centuries in the past. Block Island is no different. And there’s no better place to start than the lighthouses.

Southeast Lighthouse

Officially recognized as a National Historic Landmark and even put on the endangered list by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the Southeast Lighthouse was first constructed all the way back in 1875. The first tower was moved over twenty-five years ago to deal with the erosion taking over the perch beneath it. And that’s not even mentioning the beating it took in 1938, during one of the worst hurricanes New England has ever seen.

The Southeast Lighthouse’s popularity only grew with the addition of the museum and gift shop built alongside it. The opportunity to learn more while picking up something to remember the trip at the same time. Keep an eye out for a boulder near the bluffs. This is there to mark the spot where the original lighthouse actually stood.

North Lighthouse

The version of the North Lighthouse you see today took a few years filled with various iterations in between to get just right. It makes sense, then, to learn that this was the first of the two sister lighthouses to be built. Weather over the years has also led to the North Lighthouse being moved around a total of four times. Every change has only added to the story behind these iconic figureheads.

Part of the North Lighthouse’s charm is in its backstory. Both structures were affected by damage of one sort or another. In the case of the North Lighthouse, a big part of the work effort came from the generosity of Block Islanders, with volunteers bringing in grants and various awards to help fund the renovations. You’ll find it just a quick walk away from the shoreline, practically surrounded by beautiful beaches.

Explore them Both

Tours are a great way to learn all about your lighthouse of choice. They’re available all summer long, meaning there’s no better time to take the family, some friends, or make a solo trip to a pair of Block Island’s quintessential locations.

Both the Southeast and North Lighthouses were built as a way to provide extra protection on their coasts for ships trying to navigate the fog and tricky shoals that gave Block Island quite the reputation. They’re recognized as national monuments. After seeing them for yourself, it’s easy to understand why.