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Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

Discover the historic Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse, a beacon of maritime history at the mouth of the Delaware Bay, offering scenic views and rich heritage.

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The Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse, marking the entrance to Delaware Bay near Lewes, Delaware, has guided ships since 1926. This historic lighthouse stands as a testament to maritime engineering and the ongoing efforts to preserve coastal heritage.

A brief summary to Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • View the lighthouse from Cape Henlopen State Park for a distant but rewarding perspective.
  • Check with local tour operators for cruises that pass by the lighthouse.
  • Learn about the lighthouse's history at the Lewes Historical Society.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Lewes, Delaware, head north on Route 9 towards Cape Henlopen State Park. Follow the signs for the park entrance. Once inside the park, proceed to the northeastern end, where you can get a distant view of the lighthouse. Note that there is an entrance fee for the park, which varies depending on the season. Parking is available within the park.

  • Boat

    From Fisherman's Wharf in Lewes, inquire about cruises that pass by the Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse. Several tour operators offer scenic cruises, especially during the summer months. Ticket prices vary, but typically range from $30 to $50 per person for a basic lighthouse cruise. Confirm the exact route and lighthouse visibility when booking.

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Discover more about Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse

Located at the mouth of the Delaware Bay, just off Cape Henlopen, the Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse has been a vital navigational aid for vessels entering the busy bay area since 1926. The lighthouse marks the entrance to the Delaware Bay and sits at the end of a breakwater on the ocean side of Cape Henlopen. Originally, in 1825, Congress authorized the construction of a breakwater at Lewes to provide shelter for ships. By 1902, a temporary white frame tower was erected, followed in 1908 by a more permanent hexagonal, three-story structure. Storms took their toll, and in 1926, the current cast-iron lighthouse was completed to withstand the harsh Atlantic conditions. The 76-foot white conical tower with a black lantern is a striking landmark. The lighthouse has undergone several upgrades, including the installation of an Aero beacon in 1945 and a solar-powered Vega lens in 1997. Automated in 1973, the U.S. Coast Guard maintains the beacon, fog signal, solar panels, and batteries, ensuring it remains an active aid to navigation. The Delaware River & Bay Lighthouse Foundation has been instrumental in preserving the lighthouse, offering tours and performing restoration work. However, public tours have been indefinitely halted due to safety concerns and the high cost of breakwater repairs. Despite this, the lighthouse can still be viewed from Cape Henlopen State Park and from cruises that pass by the area.

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