Old Point Loma Lighthouse

They put it at 422 feet because it could be seen from both sides of the point, and for a while it was the highest light in the United States. That was the mistake. The marine layer sits below the summit most mornings, so the beam went out over the fog while ships felt their way in beneath it. Keepers fired shotguns into the murk to warn them off. On March 23, 1891 the flame was put out for good and moved to a tower 88 feet above the water.

What the plaque says

Old Point Loma Lighthouse This lighthouse, built in 1854, was one of the first eight lighthouses on the Pacific Coast. It continued in use until 1891, when the new Pelican Point Lighthouse began operating. The Point Loma Lighthouse became the site of the Cabrillo National Monument in 1913. During World War II the Navy used it as a signal tower. Restored by the National Park Service in 1984, it remains as a reminder of contribution of 19th century lighthouse keepers and their families to California's maritime past. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 51 Originally registered December 6, 1932. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the National Park Service and Squibob Chapter, E Clampus Vitus April 16 1988.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Fort Rosecrans — 0.8 mi
• Site of Fort Guijarros — 0.8 mi
• Ballast Point Whaling Station Site — 0.8 mi
• Cabrillo Landing Site — 0.8 mi