They are lone sentinels, braving the elements and promising refuge from the storms, and safety from dangers. They have captured our imaginations and are seen as beacons of hope in the darkness. There are thousands of them around the world, some still standing after hundreds of years.
They are also evolving into much different entities. For the most part, gone is the family or crusty individualist who lived within and eked out a life on the edge. Gone are the lanterns which had to be lit by hand. Nowadays, they are high-tech and can be remotely operated or simply programmed.
However, they will remain in our hearts as something significant, as a life-saver. And we can still find them and appreciate their unique design and individualism.
Here are a few of the many lighthouses that we have seen over the years:
One of the most photographed is the Portland Head Light.
Portland Head Light
Also in Maine, within the boundaries of Acadia National Park is the Bass Harbor Light.
Bass Harbor Light
Further south is Nubble Light, an attractive ensemble on an off-shore island.
Nubble Light, York, ME
In North Carolina, along the Outer Banks, is another of the most famous lighthouses in America, Cape Hatteras Light, recently moved farther from the water.
Cape Hatteras Light
On Long Island, the light at Fire Island is typical of the area.
Fire Island Lighthouse
On Cape Cod, the Nauset Light graces Coast Guard Beach, on the Cape Cod National Seashore.
Nauset Light, Cape Cod
In Vancouver, inside Stanley Park, is the Brockton Point Light.
Brockton Point Light, Vancouver
Another of the world’s most famous lighthouses is in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, along what is known here as the Lighthouse Route.
Peggy's Cove
