Envision a wrought iron tower rising tall. This is not just any tower. It is the Liston Range Rear Light.
The Liston Range Rear Light stands as a testament to maritime navigation. This historic lighthouse is located on the Delaware River. It plays a crucial role in guiding ships.
The Liston Range Rear Light is part of a range light system. When aligned with the Liston Range Front Light, it shows vessels the correct course. Think of it as a nautical GPS.
Originally built in 1876 to 1877, the Liston Range Rear Light was not always where it stands today. In 1906, it was moved several miles east due to a channel change. Imagine the feat of relocating such a structure.
The tower itself is an impressive 120 feet tall. The Kellogg Bridge Company of Buffalo, New York, constructed this wrought iron giant. This makes it the tallest lighthouse in Delaware.
Inside, an 8-foot diameter cylindrical stair tower ascends to the lantern. The shell consists of interlocking plates. A small iron-plate vestibule marks the entrance. A curved inner door once rolled sideways.
The light first shone on April 2, 1877. It was temporarily shut down on October 25, 1904. The light was moved. It was renamed Liston Range. A locomotive-style lamp stood in its place until the new light was installed.
On May 15, 1906, a new second-order light from Paris, France, illuminated the way. New buildings supported the new location. These included a keeper’s house, barn, and oil house.
In the 1930s, the Liston Range Rear Light was electrified. The keeper’s house was sold. Progress brought automation. A 250-watt bulb with an automatic changer ensured constant light.
The light shines through a 4-foot square window. This window aligns perfectly with the range. This ensures accurate guidance.
In 2012, the U.S. General Services Administration announced the light’s availability for purchase. This was under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act. Imagine owning a piece of maritime history.
The Liston Range Rear Light is more than just a structure. It is a beacon of history. It’s a guide through treacherous waters. It represents innovation and preservation. The Liston Range Rear Light stands tall. It is a symbol of guidance. It is a symbol of resilience.