National Lighthouse Day is an annual celebration honoring the rich maritime history and cultural significance of lighthouses in the United States. It commemorates the day in 1789 when Congress passed an act to protect and support lighthouses across the nation.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: August 7th annually
- Tagged as: Maritime Heritage Day
- Hashtag: #NationalLighthouseDay
- Founded: 1989
- Founders: U.S. Congress (Public Law 100-622)
History
On August 7, 1789, the First Congress of the United States passed an act that put all lighthouses under federal control, marking a pivotal moment in maritime safety. In 1989, on the 200th anniversary of this act, Congress officially designated August 7th as National Lighthouse Day.
Timeline
- 1716: First U.S. lighthouse established in Boston Harbor
- 1789: Federal lighthouse protection act signed
- 1989: First official National Lighthouse Day proclaimed
- Ongoing: Preservation efforts continue nationwide
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 7 | Thursday |
| 2026 | August 7 | Friday |
| 2027 | August 7 | Saturday |
| 2028 | August 7 | Monday |
| 2029 | August 7 | Tuesday |
Observed By
- Maritime historians
- Lighthouse preservation groups
- Coastal communities
- Tourism organizations
- Historical societies
Fun Facts
- Michigan has the most lighthouses of any U.S. state (over 120)
- The oldest functioning lighthouse is the Tower of Hercules in Spain
- Lighthouses were crucial for maritime navigation before modern technology
Quiz
- When was the first U.S. lighthouse built?
- How many lighthouses are still functioning worldwide?
- What was the original light source in early lighthouses?
Answers: 1) 1716, 2) Over 20,000, 3) Open fires/candles
FAQs
- Are lighthouses still important today?
- How can I visit a lighthouse?
- What is the significance of lighthouse preservation?
Importance
Lighthouses represent more than just navigational aids. They symbolize:
- Maritime heritage
- Technological innovation
- Human resilience
- Cultural preservation
Related Observances
- Maritime Heritage Day
- Coastal Preservation Week
- Nautical History Month
Celebrate National Lighthouse Day by visiting a local lighthouse, learning about maritime history, or supporting lighthouse preservation efforts!