This lighthouse, built on a small rock only 300 feet (91 m) in diameter, is one of the most exposed lighthouses on the Pacific coast. Extreme difficulties were encountered in constructing this tower, and 10 years were required before the work was completed. The base of the tower is a solid block of concrete and granite, and the tower above is also built of granite blocks. The stone was quarried from granite boulders found on Mad River near Humboldt Bay. Probably the most violent storm experienced at this lighthouse was that of 1923, when huge seas from a northwesterly direction broke on the platform of the tower, 70 feet (21 m) above water, with such violence as to tear the donkey-engine house from its foundation. Several men have been injured, and several men killed in transferring to this light by small boat. St. George Reef Lighthouse represents one of the greatest challenges in U. S. lighthouse building history. Besides being one of the most expensive ever built at that time, it took eight years to complete. Great dressed granite blocks, 1339 or them, from Mad River, were used in construction. In 1892, after a cost of $752,000, the light went into service. It marks the site of the tragic sinking of the steamer Brother Jonathan. There were ever-present hazards to be encountered in the manning of St. George Reef Lighthouse, located on storm-lashed Northwest Seal Rock. A boom lifted supplies and personnel to the lighthouse. The focal point of the light was 144 feet (44 m) above sea level. It is located approximately 12 miles (19 km) northwest of Crescent City Harbor and was manned by a crew of six. A 1,000,000 candela lamp, marker radio beacon, and a two-tone diaphone fog signal was her armament against disaster to shipping. St. George’s light was displayed from one hour before sunset to one hour after sunrise.
Thanks, Dixie, now I'm going to have to Google this lighthouse to see where exactly it is. We are heading west this summer for a family reunion near Portland, OR and will likely be in the northern CA/southern OR area for a bit too. I'm looking forward to seeing some Pacific lighthouses.
What a history of this place . . so many hardships to overcome when building it and using it. You have a great capture of it in the photo, Dixie. It seems very windy and misty there. How brave those people were who built it and also work there. Amazing story. Thanks. :)
Great shot, I believe this is the lighthouse I saw when visiting my friend who lives in Smith River 12 years ago. I would think there's only one, correct?
