If you’ve ever taken a cruise up the Hudson from Manhattan, you’ve likely spotted this historic octagonal lighthouse. Built in 1826, it is the oldest of the seven lighthouses on the river. It remained in service for 99 years, its beacon helping to safeguard ships as they navigated through one of the waterway’s most treacherous passages. And this guiding light did its job well: During the lighthouse’s tenure, only one vessel — the steamer Poughkeepsie — ran aground. Eight different light-keepers (two of whom were women) kept the light burning continuously — not an easy task, especially in stormy weather. In 1925, the three-story limestone building was decommissioned and replaced with a steel light tower (which is still operating today). Although the lighthouse is no longer in use, its light was reignited in 1995; from April through October, the building is open Wednesday through Sunday for public tours.
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