Date: November 22, 2000
Contact: Jessica Taylor, 415-464-5100
Friday, December 1st, 2000
10:00 am – 4:30 pm
Special evening Program 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
The Point Reyes peninsula has long been a major hazard to shipping vessels along the California coast. Many physical characteristics contribute to Point Reyes’ infamy. It protrudes almost 10 miles into the Pacific Ocean. Dense fog and adverse weather conditions prevail year-round. Countless sea-going vessels met their demise and hundreds of mariners have perished here over the centuries. As the California Gold Rush brought more shipping traffic past Point Reyes, its dangerous coast became all the more apparent. Private shipping interests placed enormous pressure on the federal government to protect vital San Francisco Bay traffic. The Point Reyes Lighthouse thus began its service December 1st, 1870.
Although decommissioned from active service in 1975, the Point Reyes Lighthouse is the last functionally intact light of its kind on the West Coast. Its enduring function and beauty continue to inspire all who visit the site. This December 1st marks the 130th year of this historic treasure.
Point Reyes National Seashore will be hosting the 130th birthday celebration on December 1st, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and will be providing tours of the clockwork and lens throughout the day. A special tour Illuminating the Point Reyes Light will be held from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Due to limited space available those wishing to participate must make reservations with park personnel at the lighthouse or call (415) 669-1534 from 10:00 am – 4:30 pm the day of the event. A friendly reminder no dogs are allowed at the lighthouse.
The Lighthouse is open daily Thursday through Monday from 10:00 am - 4:30 pm. Regular scheduled programs are offered each afternoon from 2:30 pm until 4:00 pm. Lighthouse stairs are open 10:00 am – 4: 30 pm weathering permitting. Any questions concerning weather at the lighthouse call the Lighthouse Visitor Center at (415) 669-1534.
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