Rebecca Shoal Light

The Rebecca Shoal Light was an important lighthouse placed on a dangerous area called Rebecca Shoal. This spot was made of coral and lay about 6.2 miles west of the Marquesas Keys and 31 miles east of the Dry Tortugas. Because it was in such a tricky place, the lighthouse helped guide ships safely through the area, preventing them from running aground on the hidden coral.

Overview and history

The Rebecca Shoal is a dangerous area with strong currents and rough seas. In 1854, efforts began to build a lighthouse there, but early attempts failed because the structures were washed away. Finally, in 1886, a small lighthouse was built on tall supports. It survived many big storms, including a major hurricane in 1919 that damaged its windows. The lighthouse stopped needing people to watch it in 1926 and was torn down in 1953. A new, simpler tower was built, but it was destroyed by a hurricane in 2004.

Timeline of Keepers

The Rebecca Shoal Light had many keepers over the years. Mark Gaze was the first keeper from 1886 to 1888. After him, James Gardner served until 1889, followed by Francis McNulty until 1890. Many others took care of the light, including Robert J. Fine, John Watkins, and William R. Cook, each serving for a few years. The list continues with keepers like Charles H. Gardner, James R. Walker, and Alfred A. Berghell, among others, up until Alonzo Baker in 1925.