Acadian Lights

Mount Desert Island's coastal waters have long threatened boats and ships with rocky shoreline, hidden ledges, and small islands obscured by fog. Since 1875, Egg Rock Lighthouse on the craggy island in Frenchman Bay has helped guide vessels safely into the bay. Lighthouse keepers endured fierce weather as storm waves periodically swept over the low-lying island, washing away out-buildings, flooding the keeper's quarters, breaking windows, and tearing away railings and walkways. In June of 1895, the fog signal sounded for 105 continuous hours. The U.S. Coast Guard automated the light in 1976, and today its red beacon and mournful fog signal continue to warn vessels away from Egg Rock's dangerous ledges.

Bar Harbor, Maine · United States