CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE
Hatteras Island, North Carolina
Cape Hatteras was built to warn ships of Diamond Shoals, which extends about 8 miles out into the ocean, a dangerous place for sailors. Earned it the nickname of Graveyard of the Atlantic. Over 2000 ships have sunk there since the 1500's. The first tower became operational in 1803 and was later heightened to 150 feet. But the 2nd tower was built after mariners still complained of it not being visible far out enough. In 1870 the tallest lighthouse in America lit up its 1st order lens.
I got here first thing in the morning after driving back into the seashore area from the inland boonies. I passed by Bodie Island light and took a few photos before hurrying on down to Hatteras. Great weather prevailed and I had good early morning light and no visitors yet for my photos. Of course the place wasn't open and I didn't get to go inside any building. They had already moved it successfully. Jacked the whole thing up and moved it inland. The sea was about to erode the beach away, threatening to topple the lighthouse. It had re-opened to the public but closed again because the stairwell did something weird which they deemed unsafe, and I'm sure it was. I just didn't get to climb it like I had hoped. Just as well. The time gained allowed me to catch both ferries that day to see Ocracoke and Cape Lookout before retiring for the evening.
Here's how I saw it:
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OF THE MOUNTAINS
John B Caddell
Copyright 2001