Concord Point Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

Concord Point Lighthouse, located in Havre de Grace, Maryland, marks the meeting of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay. Constructed in 1827 from Port Deposit granite, it is the second-oldest lighthouse in Maryland and the northernmost on the Chesapeake Bay. For 148 years, it served as a vital aid to navigation, guiding mariners through treacherous waters. The lighthouse stands 36 feet tall, with walls three feet thick at the base, narrowing to 18 inches at the top. Originally illuminated by whale oil lamps and reflectors, it later housed a fifth-order Fresnel lens. The light was automated in 1920 and decommissioned in 1975. The site has a rich history, closely tied to John O'Neill, a War of 1812 hero who became the lighthouse's first keeper. O'Neill and his descendants served as keepers for many years. The keeper's house, now a museum, has been restored to its 1884 appearance. Today, the lighthouse and keeper's house are open to the public on weekends from April to October. Visitors can explore the lighthouse, learn about its history, and enjoy views of the Chesapeake Bay. The grounds are open year-round and are a popular spot for events and wedding ceremonies.