Coquille River Lighthouse OR
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Description: The Coquille River Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the southern coast of Oregon in the United States. Here are some key details about the Coquille River Lighthouse: Location: The Coquille River Lighthouse is situated at the entrance to the Coquille River near Bandon, Oregon. It stands on the southern side of the river's entrance, helping guide ships and boats into the river and providing navigation assistance in the area. History: The lighthouse was first commissioned in 1895 and became operational in 1896. It was built to aid ships traveling along the rugged Oregon coast, helping them navigate the treacherous waters and sandbars near the river's mouth. Architecture: The Coquille River Lighthouse is a relatively small lighthouse compared to some of its counterparts along the coast. It features a classic design with a tall tower made of wood and painted white, topped with a black lantern room. The lighthouse stands 40 feet (12 meters) tall. Keepers: Over the years, the Coquille River Lighthouse had a series of lighthouse keepers and their families who lived on-site to maintain the light and ensure it operated efficiently. The keepers played an important role in the lighthouse's operation and often faced challenging and isolated living conditions. Automation and Decommissioning: In 1939, the lighthouse was automated, which meant that a resident lighthouse keeper was no longer necessary to operate the light. The Coast Guard took over responsibility for the automated light. Eventually, in 1976, the Coquille River Lighthouse was officially decommissioned and replaced by a modern navigational aid. Preservation: While the Coquille River Lighthouse is no longer an active navigational aid, it has been preserved as a historic site. The lighthouse and its surrounding area are now part of Bullards Beach State Park. Visitors can explore the lighthouse and the keeper's dwelling, which has been restored to its early 20th-century appearance. Tours and Visitor Center: Visitors to Bullards Beach State Park can take guided tours of the Coquille River Lighthouse during the summer months. The park also has a visitor center with exhibits about the lighthouse's history and the maritime heritage of the region.