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The Bald Head
Island Lighthouse
The
Bald Head Island Lighthouse, “Old Baldy,” is one of the oldest
historic structures in North Carolina. Old Baldy was the second of three lighthouses built on
Bald Head Island to help steer ships past
frying pan shoals. The first lighthouse on Bald Head Island was lost
due to beach erosion. Old Baldy was built in 1817 to replace the
first lighthouse. However, Old Baldy was not tall enough and had a
limited range of its lens. In 1903, Congress appropriated funds for
the Cape Fear Lighthouse, which would be located on Bald Head
Island. When the Cape Fear Lighthouse was completed, Old Baldy was
downgraded to a low intensity static light.
Old Baldy still stands today, however it was
decommissioned in 1930. Old Baldy has been restored to its original
condition. In 2000, a replica of the 1850’s keepers cottage was
built right next to the lighthouse and serves as the
Smith Island
Museum. If you are planning a trip to Bald Head Island, a stop
to see Old Baldy is a must. Old Baldy is open to the public. For
more information on Old Baldy, call 910-457-7481. Copyright ©
2004. All Rights Reserved.
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