Washington

1 Oregon & Washington

2 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
Astoria Oregon

3 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
North Head Lighthouse
Ilwaco, Washington

4 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
Astoria Oregon to Port Angeles Washington

5 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
Astoria Oregon to Port Angeles Washington

6 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
Astoria Oregon to Port Angeles Washington

7 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
Astoria Oregon to Port Angeles Washington

8 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
Astoria Oregon to Port Angeles Washington

9 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
Astoria Oregon to Port Angeles Washington

10 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
Astoria Oregon to Port Angeles Washington

11 2024 Road Trip - Day 35
The Grays Harbor Lighthouse, standing as a beacon on the Washington coast, has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Commissioned to improve maritime safety in the treacherous waters of the Pacific Northwest, the lighthouse was completed in 1898. It was designed by renowned lighthouse engineer Carl W. Leick, featuring a distinctive octagonal tower that rises 107 feet, making it the tallest lighthouse in Washington State. Constructed of brick and concrete, its sturdy design has allowed it to withstand the harsh coastal weather for over a century. Initially, the light was powered by a kerosene lamp, which was later upgraded to a first-order Fresnel lens, amplifying its reach to guide ships safely into Grays Harbor.
Throughout the early 20th century, the Grays Harbor Lighthouse played a crucial role in the region's maritime activities, guiding countless vessels through fog and storm. The lighthouse keepers, tasked with maintaining the light and its surrounding facilities, often faced challenging and isolated conditions. Their dedication ensured that the lighthouse operated continuously, preventing numerous shipwrecks and maritime disasters. Automation came in 1960, marking the end of the era of lighthouse keepers, yet the Grays Harbor Lighthouse remains a symbol of the enduring human effort to navigate and tame the perilous seas.