Historic
Bodie Island Lighthouse
The Bodie Island Lighthouse looks magnificent today but this historic lighthouse has had a rough start. The original lighthouse was under construction by 1847. This first lighthouse only had a height of 54 feet, which proved to be inadequate to properly be seen at sea. It also suffered from a weak foundation and was found to be leaning toward the sea, being replaced by a new lighthouse in 1859. The new lighthouse stood at 80 feet and was equipped with a Frensel lens. By 1861, the structure already found its end by being blown up at the hands of Confederate soldiers.
After the persistent requests of ship captains, a third lighthouse was constructed in 1872 on the north side of Oregon Inlet. This latest lighthouse was built to an amazing height of 156 feet and fitted with a Frensel lens, giving it a 19 mile reach out to sea. By day, the distinguishing black and white bands make this historic lighthouse unmistakable. At night all who see her light flash, 2.5 seconds on, 2.5 seconds off, 2.5 seconds on and 22.5 seconds off, know this beautiful light is on watch, warning all passing vessels of the shallow waters. By 1940, the light was fully automated and equipped with a 1,000 watt light. Today the lighthouse still stands and is under the ownership of the National Park Service. The old light keeper's house has been restored and houses the National Park Service office and a visitor center. Before you cross the Oregon Inlet bridge on your way to Hatteras Island, stop and take a picture of this wonderful historic lighthouse.
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