Great Point Light was originally established in December 1784 with a wooden tower, which was destroyed by fire in November 1816. Congress appropriated funds for reconstruction in March 1817, and a rubblestone lighthouse was constructed in October 1817. A raging storm destroyed Great Point Light on March 29, 1984, when it stood 800 feet east of the present site. It was rebuilt as a restoration duplicating the form and appearance of the former lighthouse, including the rubblestone tower, lantern house, entry shelter, and spiral staircase, while adding new technology. Photovoltaic solar panels recharge the batteries that power the light, and the lighthouse stands on a sheet pile cofferdam foundation with a five foot thick concrete mat to protect this important navigational aid against storms and beach erosion. Congress appropriated funds for reconstruction again in October 1984, and Great Point Light was restored and improved in September 1986. The citizens of Nantucket were indebted to Senator Edward M. Kennedy for his successful efforts in obtaining federal funds for the restoration of Great Point Light.