Hog Island Shoal Lighthouse
a.k.a. Hog Island Shoal Light Station
S of Hog Island, E passage, Narrangansett Bay, Portsmouth, RIBuilt in 1901-1902 to warn ships approaching Bristol and Mount Hope Bay of a shoal south of Hog Island, Hog Island Shoal Light was the last lighthouse to be established in Rhode Island, and the only one in Narragansett Bay built to replace a lightship. Although earlier lights had been established nearby at Bristol Ferry (1854) and off Muscle Bed Shoals (1873), Hog Island Shoal Light is the only surviving one of the three, and as such remains the primary navigational aid for ships in the area. Architecturally, the light is significant as an example of late nineteenth-century engineering and prefabricated construction and is one of four surviving caisson lighthouses in Rhode Island.
As early as 1869 the annual report to the Lighthouse Board had cited the need for a lighthouse southeast of Hog Island to warn ships of Hog Island Shoal, a reef situated near the entrance to Mount Hope Bay. The Board had recommended the construction of an offshore light on the reef to replace a private lightship maintained by a steamboat company that ran boats between Newport and Fall River.
However, it was not until 1899, after the lightship was reported to be in poor condition and scarcely seaworthy, that Congress appropriated $35,000 to establish a lighthouse and fog signal on the reef. By the end of June 1901, the tower's foundation cylinder had been completed and work began on erecting the iron superstructure. Although a temporary light was installed in October of that year, it was not until March 1902, that the tower was entirely finished. A fog signal was established the following month.
In 1921 the station was repaired and oil tanks were installed on the deck of the lower gallery. Otherwise, few significant alterations have been made to the tower. Automation of the light was authorized in 1959 and began with the laying of an electric cable from Hog Island to supply the station with power. However, it was not until 1964 that automation finally was completed. At that time the windows in the tower were boarded over, and as part of the conversion, a brighter light was installed and a horn was added to replace an earlier fog siren.
Local significance of the structure:
As early as 1869 the annual report to the Lighthouse Board had cited the need for a lighthouse southeast of Hog Island to warn ships of Hog Island Shoal, a reef situated near the entrance to Mount Hope Bay. The Board had recommended the construction of an offshore light on the reef to replace a private lightship maintained by a steamboat company that ran boats between Newport and Fall River.
However, it was not until 1899, after the lightship was reported to be in poor condition and scarcely seaworthy, that Congress appropriated $35,000 to establish a lighthouse and fog signal on the reef. By the end of June 1901, the tower's foundation cylinder had been completed and work began on erecting the iron superstructure. Although a temporary light was installed in October of that year, it was not until March 1902, that the tower was entirely finished. A fog signal was established the following month.
In 1921 the station was repaired and oil tanks were installed on the deck of the lower gallery. Otherwise, few significant alterations have been made to the tower. Automation of the light was authorized in 1959 and began with the laying of an electric cable from Hog Island to supply the station with power. However, it was not until 1964 that automation finally was completed. At that time the windows in the tower were boarded over, and as part of the conversion, a brighter light was installed and a horn was added to replace an earlier fog siren.
Transportation; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1988.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The name "Rhode Island" is actually a misnomer, as the state is not an island, but rather a mainland state with numerous islands in its coastal waters.
About Bristol County
Bristol County Timeline
Bristol County, Rhode Island, has a rich history dating back to the early 17th century. Originally inhabited by the Wampanoag people, the area was later settled by English colonists. The town of Bristol was officially established in 1680 and quickly became an important center for maritime trade and fishing due to its prime location on Narragansett Bay.
During the American Revolution, Bristol played a significant role in the fight for independence. The town was heavily involved in privateering, a practice where privately owned ships were authorized by the government to attack and capture enemy vessels. Many Bristol sailors served on these privateers, contributing to the success of the American cause.
In the 19th century, Bristol experienced a period of economic growth and prosperity. Industries such as shipbuilding, textiles, and manufacturing thrived, leading to an increase in population and wealth. The town's maritime heritage continued to play a vital role, with bustling wharves and a busy harbor serving as vital links for trade and commerce.
Today, Bristol County remains an important historic and cultural destination. The town of Bristol is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the Independence Park, which contains the 1783 DeWolf Tavern, a National Historic Landmark. The annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade is also a major attraction, known as the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
Overall, Bristol County, RI, boasts a long and storied history, from its Native American roots to its significant contributions to the American Revolution and its prosperous maritime heritage. The town's historical sites and traditions continue to be cherished by residents and attract visitors from near and far.
During the American Revolution, Bristol played a significant role in the fight for independence. The town was heavily involved in privateering, a practice where privately owned ships were authorized by the government to attack and capture enemy vessels. Many Bristol sailors served on these privateers, contributing to the success of the American cause.
In the 19th century, Bristol experienced a period of economic growth and prosperity. Industries such as shipbuilding, textiles, and manufacturing thrived, leading to an increase in population and wealth. The town's maritime heritage continued to play a vital role, with bustling wharves and a busy harbor serving as vital links for trade and commerce.
Today, Bristol County remains an important historic and cultural destination. The town of Bristol is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the Independence Park, which contains the 1783 DeWolf Tavern, a National Historic Landmark. The annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade is also a major attraction, known as the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
Overall, Bristol County, RI, boasts a long and storied history, from its Native American roots to its significant contributions to the American Revolution and its prosperous maritime heritage. The town's historical sites and traditions continue to be cherished by residents and attract visitors from near and far.
Bristol County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bristol County, Rhode Island.
- 1680: Bristol County is founded as part of Plymouth Colony.
- 1747: Bristol County becomes part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
- 1747-1774: Bristol experiences economic growth through the Triangular Trade, involving rum, slaves, and molasses.
- 1776: The Revolutionary War begins and Bristol County plays a significant role in supporting the American cause.
- 1777: Rhode Island declares independence from Britain and Bristol County becomes part of the newly formed state.
- 1790s: Bristol County experiences industrial growth with the establishment of mills and factories.
- 1835: The town of Bristol is incorporated.
- 1820s-1840s: Bristol's economy booms with the rise of the maritime industry.
- 1861-1865: Many Bristol residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1895: The oldest Fourth of July parade in the United States is held in Bristol.
- 20th century: Bristol County sees continued economic growth and becomes a popular tourist destination.
- 2007: Bristol County celebrates its 325th anniversary.