This black-and-white photograph captures the Lime Kiln Lighthouse on the western shore of San Juan Island, Washington. The image presents a serene seascape, with the lighthouse standing prominently against an overcast sky. The calm waters of Puget Sound meet a rugged coastline dotted with rocks that add to the landscape’s texture.
This photograph showcases the lighthouse as a symbol of guidance and safety for mariners. Its sturdy structure has withstood the test of time, serving as a reliable point of reference for those navigating the waters of the sound. The overcast sky and the tranquil sea convey a mood of tranquility and timelessness.
The black and white composition emphasizes the contrasts and details in the scene, highlighting the lighthouse’s architectural features and the natural beauty of its surroundings. The absence of color draws attention to the interplay of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
Overall, the photograph is a testament to the enduring beauty of the Pacific Northwest’s coastal landscapes. It invites viewers to appreciate the quiet majesty of the Lime Kiln Lighthouse and the natural harmony of the region.
A Rich History
The Lime Kiln Lighthouse has a rich history deeply intertwined with the development of the San Juan Islands in Washington State.
The lighthouse is situated on the west side of San Juan Island and borrows its name from the lime kilns built in the area during the 1860s. For about sixty years, limestone was quarried, and a significant portion of the island was logged to fuel the kilns, producing lime used in mortar (1).
The Lime Kiln Lighthouse was established in 1914, initially with acetylene lights. It was the last major lighthouse built in Washington and the last to be electrified. The lighthouse was a crucial aid for navigation, marking the entrance to Haro Strait, a major shipping route (1).
In 1919, the Coast Guard installed a fourth-order Fresnel lens inside the 38-foot octagonal concrete tower. This lens was replaced in 1962 with photoelectric cells to automate the light, turning it on at dusk and off at sunrise. The current optical signal flashes white every ten seconds. It was installed in 1998 and can be seen up to 15 nautical miles away (2).
The Lime Kiln Lighthouse is a navigational aid and a historical landmark that offers sweeping ocean views and is a popular spot for whale watching. Washington State Parks manages the lighthouse and surrounding property, with the Friends of Lime Kiln Society (FOLKS) acting as stewards (2).
This lighthouse stands as a testament to the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest and continues to be a point of interest for both locals and visitors alike.
Learn more: (1) lighthousefriends.com (2) washingtonourhome.com
Further Readings:
A Glimpse of Sunshine, North Head Lighthouse, Washington
Dark Autumn Skies Over Strait of Juan de Fuca, Whidbey Island, Washington
