Fog Signal Building

 lighthouse, foghorn

Built in 1975 by the US Coast Guard when Pt. Reyes Lighthouse was automated. It contains the automated light, foghorn, and radio beacon.

The original fog signal was a steam whistle built about 100 feet below the lighthouse. The signal was completed in June 1871, but could not be used until winter rains filled the water cisterns. The huge dome-like water cisterns at the top of the point are still visible. The following year, the fog signal building burned. The building was rebuilt, but was again without sufficient water. The cistern was later enlarged to meet the demand for water. One year, a local rancher hauled 20,000 gallons to Point Reyes to fill the cisterns! In 1915, a diaphone fog signal powered by gasoline engines replaced the steam signal. The fog signal was relocated just below the lighthouse in 1934. The light and signal were powered by electricity shortly thereafter.

www.rudyalicelighthouse.net/CalLts/PtReyes/PtReyes.htm