“Moaning Minnie” they called it. That’s quite a nickname for the Foghorn here on the Isle of Man. It was added in 1908. Locals in Douglas weren’t too thrilled. They complained about the noise. So, it was moved around the head to reduce the nuisance.
This Foghorn stands near where the original Douglas Head light once stood. Interestingly, no photos exist showing both towers together.
The original light was built in 1831 and 1832. Many people felt a light was needed to mark the entrance to Douglas Bay. William Quilleash became the light keeper. The light was first lit on December 21st, 1832.
Initially, the light was managed by the Douglas Harbour Commissioners. In 1859, it was transferred to the Northern Commissioners of Lights. The first light was shorter than the one that replaced it. Robert Stevenson from the Northern Commissioners suggested possible locations for it. One site was on the upper headland. The other was below.
Lieutenant Goldie’s fencing requirements made the upper site impractical. The Harbour Commissioners chose the lower site. They paid seven pounds per year in rent. The tower was built by their own workers. Robinson and Wilkins from London supplied the apparatus. It cost about 991 pounds. Other supplies were sourced locally.
The tower was rebuilt in 1892. This white stone tower stands 65 feet tall. Flat-roofed service buildings surround it. These buildings have castellated tops.
Douglas Head was a popular spot for holidaymakers. This made it one of the most visited lighthouse sites. Today, like other lights on the Isle of Man, it’s fully automatic.
The Isle of Man Times described the old light on September 20th, 1891. The Commissioners of Northern Lights condemned the tower. They planned to tear it down and build a new one. The lantern had eight brilliant reflectors made of pure silver. They dated back to 1831. The light was powerful. It could be seen for 14 to 15 miles in clear weather. It helped coasting boats stay clear of land. The Commissioners also built a new footpath. It went around the top of Port Skillion down to the light. The path was finished just last week.