CREDITS: I would like to thank Jeremy D'Entremont for providing much of the history one can find on this site. He is a speaker, author, historian, and tour guide who is widely recognized as the foremost authority on the lighthouses of New England. For a story on Jeremy or to visit his site (New England Lighthouses: A Virtual Guide), use the corresponding link in the right hand information bar under "Related Links".

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Introduction

I have set up this site as a means to share my photographs of lighthouses. Since retiring and finding more time to study photography, my interests have expanded a little. For some of my work other than lighthouses please enjoy my Facebook page at, John Shaw Photography. Come visit, enjoy, and 'LIKE' if you wish.

Also, for your enjoyment, I have provided a slideshow of our journey. To view it please use the link on the right under 'Site Navigation Tools'.

I sincerely hope you enjoy my efforts and use my site not only for information and education but also to provide directions for many enjoyable, inspirational visits to the beacons along our beautiful coas.

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Rockland Harbor Southwest Lighthouse

     Rockland Harbor Southwest Light is Maine's newest lighthouse and the only privately built lighthouse in New England to become an official aid to navigation.
















     Dr. Bruce Woolett's love of lighthouses began when he was a boy. Years later, the Maine dentist had a house built in Owl's Head and during construction he stayed at his adopted grandparents' house. The flash of Rockland Breakwater Light entered his bedroom each night, inspiring Dr. Woolett to build his own lighthouse.




      The lighthouse was built between 1981 and 1987. The $14,000 structure was finished in November 1987 and equipped with an electric marine lens. With the help of Ken Black of Rockland's Shore Village Museum, the Coast Guard was convinced to recognize Rockland Harbor Southwest Light as an official aid to navigation marking dangerous Seal Ledge. It is now maintained as a private aid to navigation.





      John J. Gazzola purchased the property from Dr. Woolett in May 1998. According to Mr. Gazzola, "Much of the location has been extensively renovated including the lighthouse: new exterior wood shingle siding, combination storm sash with shutters, new doors both entrance and light level to exterior platform, also landscaping, interior first floor reading room, second floor bedroom, two watch bunks within tower to light level, new electrical wiring, insulation interior and exterior painting and other changes including a revised C.G. Light List # to 4140 from 4070."




     Directions:  Take U.S. Route 1 to Thomaston, turning south onto Me. 73.  Continue about one mile past a “Welcome to Owls Head” sing and turn left to North Shore Drive then continue east about 0.5 mile to FR C230 (a narrow dirt road marked with a small sign).  The lighthouse is at the end of the lane, but bear in mind that it is a private residence.  The above photographs were taken from a beach reached by kayak out of respect for the owner's privacy.

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1 comment:

  1. AnonymousAugust 5, 2021 at 6:03 AM

    Its a shame that you violate peoples right to privacy by posting directions to a PRIVATELY OWNED property knowing full well that most people pay no attention to your cautions! How about posting directions to your house so folks can look through your bedroom windows!!!

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