Hospital Point Lighthouse, in Beverly on Boston’s North Shore, has several distinctions. Its lantern still holds its original 3 1/2-order Fresnel lens, along with a rare condensing panel that helps define the shipping channel into Salem Harbor. In 1927, the lighthouse became the front light in range when a light was added to the steeple of Beverly’s First Baptist Church, making the light in the steeple the rear range light. And since 1947, the light station has served as home to the commander of the First Coast Guard District.
The attractive square brick tower is rarely opened to the public, but there will be an open house on Sunday, September 30. On that day, from 12 noon to 3 p.m., visitors will be guided by members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary up the winding stairs and a seven-step ladder to the lantern room. From there they will pass through the hatch onto the lantern gallery to enjoy the spectacular view.
For more information and directions, click here.
Candace was the US Lighthouse Society historian from 2016 until she passed away in August 2018. For 30 years, her work involved lighthouse history. She worked with the National Park Service and the Council of American Maritime Museums. She was a noted author and was considered the most knowledgable person on lighthouse information at the National Archives. Books by Candace Clifford include: Women who Kept the Lights: a History of Thirty-eight Female Lighthouse Keepers , Mind the Light Katie, and Maine Lighthouses, Documentation of their Past.