A weathered hulk of steel, the BARNEGAT Lightship has long been a fixture in the Camden waterfront. This impressive vessel, a testament to maritime history, once stood guard on the treacherous waters off the coast of New Jersey. It served as a beacon of light for ships navigating the dangerous waters, a crucial link in the safety of maritime travel.
Built in 1904, the BARNEGAT was initially stationed at the Five Fathom Bank, a treacherous spot 15 miles from the Cape May Lighthouse. It spent two decades guiding mariners through the treacherous waters, emitting a steady white light to signal ships in distress. Its history is steeped in adventure and seafaring tales.
The BARNEGAT was outfitted with an innovative submarine bell, emitting a low-frequency sound that could be heard underwater. Ships would align themselves with the vessel by listening for the intensity of the sound on either side of the ship, navigating by the bell’s auditory signal. This was before the days of radar and GPS, when the BARNEGAT was a crucial link in maritime safety.
The BARNEGAT’s path would lead it to the Delaware Bay, where during World War II, it served as an examination vessel at Edgemoor, Delaware. It would stop all vessels entering the Delaware River, assessing their identity, cargo, and origins. This crucial task kept the shipping lanes safe during the war, a testament to the BARNEGAT’s adaptability and national significance.
The BARNEGAT served for over half a century, making its last voyage in 1967. Today, it sits in the Pyne Poynt Marina in Camden, a silent monument to a time when lightships were essential to safe navigation. Even today, the story of the BARNEGAT is a captivating reminder of the vital role these vessels played in maritime history.