Historically Famous Lighthouses

WASHINGTON CAPE FLATTERY LIGHTHOUSE

Reading edition

Off shore, on Tatoosh Island.

Illustration from Historically Famous Lighthouses CG-232

Cape Flattery Lighthouse was built in 1857, but only after great difficulties with the Indians. Before commencing the lighthouse, it was necessary to build a blockhouse, and 20 muskets with ammunition were furnished for protection against Indians from the Canadian side of the Strait. Shortly after the light was completed the keeper resigned because he was annoyed by the numerous Indians who used the island as a fishing and whaling station. Cape Flattery Lighthouse is now electrified, and is fitted with a diaphone fog signal and a radiobeacon.

The light can be seen for 19 miles and is 165 feet above water. (1) (2)

Notes in this chapter

Note 1 · Inspection Reports by Army, Navy, Revenue Cutter Officers and Special Agents of the Treasury Department—The National Archives, Washington, D Note 2 · Annual Reports of the Lighthouse Board—1852-1910.