Its history intrigues you. The lighthouse, standing tall on a rocky shore, waves crashing below, is a symbol of the power of the sea, and our efforts to avoid watery disaster. For centuries, lighthouses have guided ships around dangerous points and into safe harbors. The U.S. Coast Guard, responsible for navigation and safety in U.S. waters, currently tends to about 850 lighthouses, but modern navigational technology has reduced the need for beacons of this sort. The Coast Guard is in the process of selling off many lighthouses, mainly to federal and state government agencies.
Many lighthouses are already in public hands, serving as museums.
A few are privately owned, including at least one bed and breakfast inn. Some are vacant and crumbling. There are many lighthouse-related Web sites available for your viewing enjoyment. Some also offer lighthouse collectibles and related items for sale. This comprehensive site offers information on U.S. and Irish lighthouses, grouped by region.