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Chatham Lighthouse

Fl W 10s🇺🇸Southeastern Massachusetts, USOperational

Also known as: Chatham Lighthouse

Constructed in 1808, Chatham Lighthouse originally featured two wooden towers. These were replaced in 1841, and again in 1877 with two cast-iron towers. The station was known as Twin Lights until 1923. One of the 1877 towers was relocated and became Nauset Light. The current structure stands 14.5 meters tall with its light positioned at 24 meters above sea level, emitting a white light.

Why it matters: Chatham Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Background
Chatham Lighthouse, known as Twin Lights prior to 1923, is a lighthouse in Chatham, Massachusetts, near the "elbow" of Cape Cod. The original station, close to the shore, was built in 1808 with two wooden towers, which were both replaced in 1841. In 1877, two new towers, made of cast iron rings, replaced those. One of the towers was moved to the Eastham area, where it became known as Nauset Light in 1923.
Characteristic Signature
Fl W 10s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
10s
Focal Height
24m
Year Built
1808
Heritage Status
National Register of Historic Places listed place
Tower Height
14.5m
City
Southeastern Massachusetts
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
41.6713°
Longitude
-69.9498°
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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How do mariners identify Chatham Lighthouse at night?+
Chatham displays the characteristic Fl W 10s — 1 white flash every 10 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area.
Which ports and harbors does Chatham Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Chatham Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Chatham at 0.8 NM to the WSW. Other ports served include NAUSET MARINE EAST (6.7 NM N), Brewster (8.3 NM NW), SHIP SHOPS (10.7 NM W), West Yarmouth (13.5 NM W). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Chatham Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Chatham Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Chatham Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Chatham Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.