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Nix's Mate Daybeacon Lighthouse

🇺🇸Boston, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Nix's Mate Daybeacon Lighthouse

This octagonal daybeacon, constructed in 1805 from wood and granite, stands on a small landmass in Boston Harbor. Its structure is a black pyramidal form with a white horizontal band, covered in stucco. Originally built by the state of Massachusetts, it has served as a navigational aid without an active light. The U.S. Coast Guard announced plans for its replacement in 2001, but a public restoration was completed in 2003 following community support. It remains under Coast Guard management.

Why it matters: The daybeacon's unique shape and 1805 construction date make it a recognizable landmark. It also serves as the official symbol for the Friends of the Boston Harbor Islands.

Tower & Structure

Tower Shape
pyramidal, octagonal
Tower Color
black with a white horizontal band
Material
wood, granite

Structure: An octagonal stucco-covered wooden pyramid, painted black with a white horizontal band, mounted on a granite base.

Location

City
Boston
Country
🇺🇸United States
Region
Massachusetts
Sea Region
tiny scrap of land east of Long Island Head and north of Gallops Island in Boston Harbor
Latitude
42.3316°
Longitude
-70.9441°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Construction & History

Year Built
1805

Significant events: Coast Guard announced replacement in 2001, complete restoration in 2003

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Winthrop(2.6 km)
USCG No.
1-11450
ARLHS No.
USA-456
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Frequently Asked Questions

Which ports and harbors does Nix's Mate Daybeacon Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Nix's Mate Daybeacon Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is WINTHROP at 2.5 NM to the NNW. Other ports served include SOUTH BOSTON (3.7 NM W), Dorchester (5 NM WSW), Boston (5.1 NM WNW), NORTH WEYMOUTH (5.1 NM S). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Nix's Mate Daybeacon Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Nix's Mate Daybeacon 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 Nix's Mate Daybeacon Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Nix's Mate Daybeacon 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.