THE LIGHTHOUSES
John Abisamra
of CAPE ANN
Annisquam Harbor Lighthouse.
S
TATELY AND STOIC, SIX ICONIC LIGHTHOUSES STAND GUARD ALONG the Cape Ann coastline protecting seafarers from rocky shores and shoals. They offer historians and romantics alike a glimpse into Cape Ann’s maritime lore and legacy. Lighthouses are a comfort to mariners to this day, and despite the use of GPS and electronic aids for navigation they still symbolize home and safety.
GLOUCESTER Annisquam Harbor Lighthouse White light flashing every 7.5 seconds with red sector. Annisquam Harbor Lighthouse (Annisquam Light) was erected in 1801 to mark the entrance to the Annisquam River at Wigwam Point, a popular Native American summer encampment. The river connected Ipswich Bay to Gloucester Harbor following the construction of the Blynman Canal. Annisquam Light’s wooden frame was replaced with the existing 41-foot brick
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CAPE ANN GUIDE & DIRECTORY 2021–2022
tower, with a focal plane of 45 feet, in 1897. The lighthouse is maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard and is no longer accessible from the nearby village of Annisquam in Gloucester. Best viewing opportunities are by water or from Wingaersheek Beach.
Eastern Point Lighthouse White light flashing every 5 seconds. Eastern Point Lighthouse was erected on Gloucester’s Eastern Point to mark the harbor entrance in 1832. The current brick tower was built in 1890 and is
36 feet tall, with a focal plane of 56 feet. One of the station’s more famous occupants was Winslow Homer. The noted artist spent a year living at the light in 1880. Although not open to visitors, the lighthouse presents a wonderful view, especially from the vantage point of the adjacent Dog Bar Breakwater. Visitors are welcome to walk along or fish from the flat granite blocks atop this massive quarter-mile long structure, which has protected Gloucester Harbor from storms since 1904. The Massachusetts Audubon Society maintains a small parking area near the lighthouse and breakwater as part of its Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary. Parking is free for members and $10 per car for nonmembers between Memorial Day and Columbus Day. For more information visit massaudubon.org. CAPEANNVACATIONS.COM
