Cape Elizabeth
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Cape Elizabeth Quick Facts
Year Station Established: 1828
Is the Light operational? Yes
Year Light First Lit: 1874
Year Automated: 1963
Shape: Conical
Tower Height: 67 ft.
Original Optic: 2nd Order, Fresnel
Present Optic: FA-251
Existing Keepers Quarters? Yes
Year Constructed: 1878
Number of Stories: 2
Architectural Style: Victorian
Construction Materials: Wood (rebuilt in 1999)
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Cape Elizabeth (Two Lights) Lighthouse Cape Elizabeth, ME
More Photos
(8 photos, 234KB total download)
Last Visited: February, 2002
History:
Originally built in 1828, these two light towers, about 300 yards apart, were one of Maine's two "twin lights" (Matinicus Rock was the other). Originally constructed of rubblestone, both towers became badly eroded and were rebuilt in 1874 and constructed of cast iron. The lantern was removed from the West tower in 1924 when the Lighthouse Service ruled that all twin lights must be converted to single beacons. This inactive light was sold several times to private owners and was refurbished and given a new top in 1985. The East tower which is 67 feet tall, was automated in 1963 and is still active, although its second order Fresnel lens was removed and replaced by the current beacon in 1994. The residence and grounds of this eastern tower are now privately owned as well. In 1999 the gingerbread keeper's house was demolished by the owner, and was replaced by a "replica" with a two-car garage added.
Source:
Internet Public Library
Hours:
The two properties where the old and current lighthouses sit are private residences and private property.
Personal Note:
Park in the parking lot at the end of Two Lights Road, then walk back up the road and down Two Lights Terrace. Then you can walk along the road and get right to the end of the driveway for better photos. Remember, they're private property. Please respect that.
Latitude/Longitude: 43.566069,-70.20003
Nearest Address: 225 Two Lights Road, Cape Elizabeth, ME
Directions:
- From the Maine Turnpike (Route 95) take exit 42.
- After the toll, at the set of lights continue straight.
- Follow Route 1 north for appx. 1.5 miles. At the traffic light with a Mobil station on the right, turn right onto Route 207.
- Stay on Route 207 for appx. 2.9 miles until you get to Route 77. Take a left onto Route 77.
- Take Route 77 for appx. 5.5 miles. Keep an eye out for Wheeler Rd. Take a right onto Wheeler then an immediate right onto Two Lights Road.
- About 2 miles down on Two Lights Road the road will fork to the right. Stay left on Two Lights Road.
- Go to the end of the road and park at the lot for viewing from a distance. On your way back from the parking lot you can take a right onto Two Lights Terrace to drive by the lighthouse and Inkeeper's house. Remember, it's PRIVATE property.
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