From 1797 to 1870, Montauk Point Lighthouse was the most important beacon for ships sailing the essential sea lane from Great Britain and France to New York with manufactured goods that were a major part of America's foreign trade and developing economy. The site has national significance in commemorating the history of the United States of America and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2012 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places on July 7, 1969.
