Cape Henlopen Lighthouse

Year Built

1767

Cost

£3,000 ($3,900)

Type

Conical

Height

69 feet

Location

Cape Henlopen, Sussex County

Automated Year

N/A

First Lit

1769

Lens Type

First order Fresnel lens

Fog Signal

None

Year Deactivated

1924

Color

White

Last Keeper - Date

John C. Gray (1924)

Description

A replica of Cape Henlopen Lighthouse was built in a round-about in Rehoboth Beach.

Brief History

•  In 1777, during the American Revolution, the lighthouse was almost completely destroyed by the British.
•  1923 – Harry H. Palmer, keeper, John C. Gray, first assistant, and Henry F. G. Bryant, second assistant, rescued a four-mule team which was sinking rapidly in the quicksand in the vicinity of the light station. Happened on March 26, 1923.
•  Earlier in 1924, the lens was removed from the light for refurbishing and to be placed on display.
•  About lunchtime April 13, 1926, the lighthouse fell due to erosion. When it collapsed, it is said many local residents went to the site to collect the stone for fireplaces and chimneys.
•  2004, A replica of Cape Henlopen Lighthouse was built in a round-about in Rehoboth Beach.