National Register Listing

Fourteen Foot Bank Light

a.k.a. United States Coast Guard Light List #1355

On Fourteen Foot Bank in Delaware Bay, 12 mi. E of Bowers, Bowers, DE
Fourteen-Foot Bank Lighthouse is a landmark in the history of lighthouse engineering, the first American use of the pneumatic caisson method of foundation construction (Criterion C). This technique, while difficult, represented a great advance in dealing with the problem of locating lighthouses on unstable sandy bottoms. Using a pressurized wooden chamber open at the bottom, the shoal at Fourteen-Foot Bank was excavated to a depth of more than 33'. As the digging progressed, more tiers of iron plates were added so as to keep the top of the foundation shell above water, and the cavity (except the air shaft) filled with concrete. Following the pioneering effort at Fourteen-Foot Bank, ten other lights in similar circumstances were built by this method, at which time more precise ways of pile-driving superseded the use of pneumatic caissons. Although the dwelling and tower are less revolutionary than the substructure, they constitute a good example of the use of cast-iron plates for superstructures, a construction technique characteristic of the period. One of the Bay's more stylish lights, Fourteen-Foot Bank's Classical Revival form and details reflect the federal government's penchant for classical architecture in public buildings. Finally Fourteen-Foot Bank Lighthouse is also significant because it reflects the great increase in shipping, and consequent need for an improved system of navigational aids, which occurred in the late 19th century.

Fourteen-Foot Bank is a critical turning point for ships navigating the Delaware Bay and had been marked by a lightship as early as 1876. As in the case of other lightships in the Bay, however, this arrangement proved inadequate; ice floes and storms tended to force the lightship from its mooring when it was most needed.
Local significance of the structure:
Engineering; Maritime History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

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.

engineering maritime
The district is also home to several important educational institutions, including the University of Delaware, which was founded in 1743 as a small private academy. Today, the university is a major research institution with over 23,000 students.
Delaware random facts
Kent County, located in the state of Delaware, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the colonial era. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people before European settlers arrived in the early 17th century. The first permanent European settlement in the county was established by the Dutch in 1631, but they were soon displaced by the English who took control of the region.

During the 18th century, Kent County played a significant role in American history, particularly during the American Revolution. The county's proximity to important waterways, such as the Delaware River, made it a strategic location for trade and transportation. Dover, the county seat, became the state capital in 1777 and hosted the state's constitutional convention. It was also the site of the historic Golden Fleece Tavern, where the Constitution of Delaware was ratified.

In the 19th century, Kent County experienced economic growth and development, largely centered around agriculture and industry. The county became known for its large agricultural estates, such as Dover's Green Thatch Plantation, which contributed to the region's prosperity. With the advent of railroads, transportation became more efficient, allowing for easier movement of goods and people.

In the 20th century, Kent County saw further growth and diversification. The establishment of Dover Air Force Base during World War II brought economic opportunities and employment to the area. Additionally, the county's location between two major cities, Philadelphia and Baltimore, contributed to its role as a transportation hub and a growing business center. Today, Kent County continues to thrive as a blend of agricultural, industrial, and residential communities, while also preserving its historical heritage through numerous museums, historic sites, and landmarks.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kent County, Delaware.

  • 1680: Kent County was established as one of three original counties in Delaware.
  • 1682: The county's first courthouse was built in Duck Creek Crossroads, now known as Smyrna.
  • 1701: Kent County became the new capital of Delaware, replacing New Castle.
  • 1777: The Battle of Cooch's Bridge, the only Revolutionary War battle fought in Delaware, took place in the county.
  • 1787: Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution at the Golden Fleece Tavern in Dover.
  • 1829: The Delaware Railroad was established, connecting Kent County to the growing transportation network.
  • 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment, abolishing slavery, was ratified by Delaware in Dover.
  • 1978: The Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village opened in Dover, showcasing the county's agricultural history.
  • 2013: Kent County celebrated its 330th anniversary with various events and activities.