Fort Point Lighthouse

Fort Point Lighthouse, built in 1836, first guided boats bound for Bangor, which in the mid-19th century was a thriving lumbering port and one of the busiest on the East Coast. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Penobscot River made it an essential navigational aid for ships carrying timber and other goods inland. The light was named for neighboring Fort Pownall, constructed in the 18th century to defend the area against French incursions.

Today, the station is located within Fort Point State Park, where visitors can also explore the remains of the historic fort, scenic walking paths and sweeping river views. While the lighthouse itself serves as the residence of the park ranger and is not open for interior tours, the grounds are open to the public seasonally from 9 a.m. until sunset. The light station includes a distinctive two-story keeper’s house, attached to the light tower by a short, enclosed passageway, as well as a rare pyramidal bell tower that adds to the site’s historic character.