National Register Listing

Robbins Reef Light Station

a.k.a. Robbins Reef Light; Kate's Light

SW Upper New York Bay, 2.6 mi. SE of I-78 Interchange 14A, Bayonne, NJ
Robbins Reef Light Station is historically significant in the Hudson County, New Jersey, locality and is eligible for the National Register under Criteria A and C. It is significant under Criterion A for its association with the efforts of the Federal government to provide for an integrated system of navigational aids throughout the United States and in promoting maritime transport safety in and around the ports in northern New Jersey and New York City. It is also significant under Criterion C as a well-preserved early example of pier foundation design for offshore lighthouses and as an example of late nineteenth-century light tower design. The property's period of historical significant begins in 1839 when its foundation pier was built. The period of historical significance ends in 1955, the most recent year of the light's operation, fifty years before the present.
Local significance of the structure:
Maritime History; Transportation; Architecture; Engineering

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2006.

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.

New Jersey is home to the oldest continuous seaside resort community in the United States. Cape May, located at the southern tip of the state, has been a popular vacation spot since the early 1800s.
New Jersey random facts
Hudson County, located in the northeastern part of New Jersey, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area was initially inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans before the arrival of European settlers. In the early 17th century, Dutch traders established the settlement of Bergen, making it one of the earliest permanent European settlements in the region.

During the American Revolutionary War, Hudson County played a strategic role due to its location near New York City. It was the site of several skirmishes and was occupied by both American and British forces at various times. After the war, the county experienced rapid industrialization and urban development, fueled by the growth of the shipping, manufacturing, and trade industries.

In the mid-19th century, waves of immigrants, including Irish, German, and Italian, came to Hudson County, seeking employment in the burgeoning industries. This immigration wave, coupled with the industrial boom, led to the establishment of vibrant ethnic neighborhoods and a diverse cultural landscape that continues to this day.

In the 20th century, Hudson County faced numerous challenges but also experienced periods of growth and transformation. The area saw waves of immigration from Eastern Europe and Latin America, contributing to its cultural diversity. Over the years, the county underwent revitalization efforts to attract investments, improve infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

Today, Hudson County is a vibrant and dynamic community, known for its bustling cities, diverse population, and proximity to New York City. It continues to evolve and thrive, blending its rich history with modern urban life.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hudson County, New Jersey.

  • 1600s - Hudson County was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native American tribe
  • 1609 - Henry Hudson sails past the area while exploring the Hudson River
  • 1660 - Dutch settlers establish the village of Bergen, the first permanent European settlement in the area
  • 1664 - The British take control of the area from the Dutch and rename Bergen to Bergen Township
  • 1776 - During the American Revolution, British forces occupy Hudson County
  • 1804 - Jersey City is established as a town, named after the nearby state of New Jersey
  • 1840s - Industrialization begins in Hudson County, with the opening of factories and shipyards
  • 1861-1865 - Many residents of Hudson County fight in the American Civil War
  • 1870 - Hudson County becomes an important transportation hub with the completion of the Hudson and Manhattan Railroad
  • 1908 - Construction of the Holland Tunnel begins, connecting Hudson County to New York City
  • 1916 - The Black Tom explosion occurs in Jersey City, an act of sabotage during World War I
  • 1960s - Urban renewal projects lead to the construction of new residential and commercial buildings
  • 1982 - The County of Hudson is officially established