Butler Flats Light stands in New Bedford’s outer harbor at the mouth of the Acushnet River, guiding vessels toward the city’s inner harbor since its construction in 1898 by the United States Lighthouse Board. A 53-foot caisson lighthouse on a concrete foundation, it is notable for its sparkplug form and as the only known caisson lighthouse designed by marine architect F. Abraham Smith. Built as a compact offshore station for a crew of seven, it included living quarters, work space, and a fog signal. After the New Bedford Hurricane Barrier reduced its navigational importance, the light was automated in 1978 and is now maintained by the city as a private aid to navigation.

Fairhaven, Massachusetts · USA