Caisson lighthouse

Lighthouse whose superstructure rests on a concrete or metal caisson

A caisson lighthouse (also referred to as a sparkplug lighthouse, or bug light) is a type of lighthouse whose superstructure rests on a concrete or metal caisson.^[1] Caisson lighthouses were developed in the late nineteenth century as a cheaper alternative to screwpile lighthouses. The caisson design was also more efficient as it could better withstand harsh weather, and was not as fragile. Caisson lighthouses usually have living quarters made of cast iron, although some brick examples are known. The two American nicknames were later coined because of the structure's shape.^[1]

Gallery

Wolf Trap Light
a caisson lighthouse in the Chesapeake Bay
Butler Flats Light
stands in open water about 15 feet (4.6 m) deep, about 1,800 feet (550 m) from land
Greens Ledge Light
stands in open water about 10 feet (3.0 m) deep, about 1 km from land
Sakonnet Light
is on a small rock

References

^ ^a ^b Rowlett, Russ. "Sparkplug Lighthouses, 1871–1926". The Lighthouse Directory. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Retrieved February 27, 2018.

Lighthouses

History of lighthouses
Conservation of lighthouses
Museums

Types

Construction	Aerial Caisson Crib Integral Pile Screw-pile Skeletal tower Vessel (acting)
Navigational purpose	Daymark Leading lights Sea mark Sector light