Sandy Point Lighthouse | place with historical importance, interesting place

 lighthouse, place with historical importance, interesting place

Constructed in 1883 to replace the earlier, land-based Sandy Point Shoal light, which was practically useless in warning the increasing number of passing ships about the trecherous shoal. The light was electrified in 1929, and replaced by the US Coast Guard with an automated light in 1963 during their lighthouse automation project.
The Coast Guard spent many manhours fighting against the elements in the light's upkeep. Vandals destroyed the historical 19th century Fresnel lens in 1979 and almost all of the window panes, the caisson was repaired to keep it water-tight, and the light received a new copper roof to stop the water damage which had already destroyed the interior's woodwork and plaster. In 2006, the light was sold in an online auction for $250,000. The Coast Guard is allowed to access the now private lighthouse for periodic maintenance of the modern light and foghorn.

www.lighthousefriends.com/light.asp?ID=424
www.cyberlights.com/lh/md/sandy.htm