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60 lighthouses dot the Maine coastline, from the reknown Nubble
Light in York to West Quoddy Head, the easternmost lighthouse in
the United States. At one time these imposing structures, with their
luminous beacons and booming foghorns, were the only means to forwarn
ships of impending fog and ominous weather conditions while guiding
these vessels to safe havens along the rocky seacoast.
Today, modern technology
has replaced these stalwarts of maritime history. The latest radar
and GPS systems now provide the navigational aid and weather conditions
to numerous pleasure and commercial crafts along the coast, hence
relieving most of these lighthouses of their duties, and sadly
closing a chapter in Maine's storied history. Fortunately the
majority of these structures, some of which are easily accessible
by car or ferry, have been well preserved, and visitors are encouraged
to explore and photograph these beautiful historic sites! Watch
the photo slide show above for a quick preview of some of the
great photo "ops" the state has to offer...or click
on the below links to learn more about each lighthouse. For
a map of Maine (PDF file) click
here.
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