description Bald Head Light Overview
The Bald Head Light stands on a small island off the coast of North Carolina. Constructed in 1817, it is the state’s oldest surviving lighthouse and an important historic landmark. Its prominent location guides mariners through Cape Fear Inlet. The light continues to operate today, serving as a navigational aid for ships and attracting visitors interested in maritime history and coastal preservation.
It is particularly relevant for historians, navigation enthusiasts, and those exploring North Carolina's coastline.
help Bald Head Light FAQ
What is Bald Head Light and why is it called Old Baldy?
Bald Head Light is a historic North Carolina lighthouse also known as Old Baldy. It is identified as the oldest standing lighthouse in the state, and that reputation is tied to the building's very old age and continuous historical status.
When was Old Baldy completed, and what does that date imply for its history?
The tower was completed in 1817, making it an early 19th century structure. That date is usually the strongest evidence used by collectors to confirm which lighthouse entry they are researching.
What is the key structural detail of the lighthouse itself?
Old Baldy is described as an octagonal brick tower. The octagonal brick form is a concrete architectural detail that helps it stand out from later lighthouse designs in many catalogs.
How is Bald Head Light usually represented in historical catalogs and search indexes?
Most references list it under both names: Bald Head Light and Old Baldy. If you are filtering historical records, the 1817 completion date is often the key field used for disambiguation.
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