Once upon a time, guiding ships safely into New York Harbor was the Coney Island Lighthouse’s main purpose. Built in 1890, this sentinel stands at the western edge of Coney Island, in Sea Gate. Imagine the scene when it was built for only $18000.
The Coney Island Lighthouse’s story is rich with history. Major D.P. Heap, from the U.S. Lighthouse Service, designed it. He also designed other lighthouses with a similar structure. The light was activated in August 1890 with Thomas Higginbotham as its first keeper. Higginbotham served there for 20 years.
Originally, the Coney Island Lighthouse used a fourth-order Fresnel lens lit by a kerosene lamp. The lamp floated in mercury to reduce friction. Later, an LED lamp with backup bulbs replaced it. The original Fresnel lens is now displayed at the U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington D.C.
Before automation, the lamp rotation relied on a clockwork mechanism. Keepers had to crank a rope with a weight every four hours. Frank Schubert, a later keeper, extended the rope’s length to eight hours.
Life at the Coney Island Lighthouse wasn’t always easy. Thomas Higginbotham tragically died in a heatwave in 1910. Other keepers like Ernest J. Larsson, Gilbert L. Rulon, and Herbert Greenwood followed. In 1944, Adrien Boisvert and his family took over until 1960. That’s when Frank Schubert’s family moved in.
Frank Schubert became the final civilian lighthouse keeper in the United States. He lived at the Coney Island Lighthouse from 1960 until he passed away in 2003. His family remembers those years fondly, filled with fishing, barbecues, and laughter.
The Coney Island Lighthouse underwent automation in 1989. Today, it remains an operational beacon, a skeletal white tower with black trim. It stands 75 feet tall, flashing red every five seconds.
The original fog bell, used when visibility was poor, was removed before 1960. Neighbors rejoiced as its constant ringing ceased. The lighthouse, with its adjacent house and storage shed, has seen many changes.
Even after the Schubert family moved out, the Coney Island Lighthouse holds a special place in their hearts. It’s a reminder of their “Grandpa’s House,” a symbol of safety and love. The Coney Island Lighthouse continues to stand tall, a testament to its enduring legacy.