Romer Shoal Light Station

Romer Shoal Light Station, established in 1898, is significant to the local history of Monmouth County, New Jersey, under National Register Criteria A and C. It is significant under Criterion A for its association with the Federal government's efforts to provide an integrated system of navigational aids throughout the United States, and to promote maritime safety in the vicinity of New York harbor. It is significant under Criterion C because it embodies the distinctive characteristics and methods of construction employed for offshore lighthouses during the late nineteenth century. This property exemplifies two major aspects of United States lighthouse design, the cylindrical caisson foundation and the cast iron, conical, sparkplug-type light tower. Romer Shoal Light Station meets the registration requirements outlined in the multiple property documentation form "Light Stations of the United States." It remains in its original location and its design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association reflect its period of historical significance. This property retains most of its original integrity except for the loss of limited features such as the main gallery awning and partition wall, smokestack, fuel tanks, and original equipment. The absence of these features does not significant detract from the structure's overall integrity. Today, Romer Shoal Light continues to fulfill its original function as an operating Federal aid to navigation. It still evokes feelings that recall its historical character as an isolated offshore lighthouse manned by keepers dedicated to fulfilling their duty to promote navigational safety. This light station's period of historical significance begins when it was established in 1898 and ends in 1956, the most recent year of its operation 50 years before the present.