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Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse

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description Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse Overview

The Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse stands on a small island near North Carolina’s Chesapeake Bay. Constructed in 1857, this offshore screwpile lighthouse was notable for its unique design, built to anchor securely against strong currents and waves. It served mariners navigating treacherous reefs until 1952. The structure is of interest to maritime historians, coastal engineers, and those studying nineteenth-century navigational aids.

help Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse FAQ

Where is the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse located?

The Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse stands in the Chesapeake Bay off the coast of Maryland, not far from Annapolis. It sits on a shallow shoal to warn mariners of dangerous underwater conditions in the bay.

What type of lighthouse is Thomas Point Shoal?

Thomas Point Shoal is a screw-pile lighthouse, a type built on iron pilings screwed into the muddy bay floor. It is the last intact screwpile lighthouse in the United States still standing in its original location.

Is the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse still active?

Yes, the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse remains an active navigational aid maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of its unique construction and historical significance.

Can visitors tour the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse?

Guided tours are available during summer months, typically organized through the U.S. Lighthouse Society and the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Access requires a boat trip out to the offshore structure, as it sits in the open waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

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