In 1835, Congress appropriated funds to build a lighthouse on the northern tip of Long Beach Island. The tower was built to mark the 40th parallel, an important point for trans-Atlantic voyages during that time.
After standing for 20 years, the original 40-foot lighthouse fell victim of beach erosion and fell into the ocean in 1856. Lt. George Meade, who was later the victorious Union general at Gettysburg, was commissioned to design a new lighthouse in 1855.
By 1858, Meade finished building the current lighthouse, and "Old Barney" was born.
"Old Barney" played a role in in the Allied victory in WWI, serving as a
lookout tower on the East Coast.
In 1927, the vessel Barnegat Lightship was commissioned to navigate eight miles off shore and the lighthouse became less important.
Modern renovation of the Barnegat Lighthouse started in 1988. By 1991, the signature red-and-white tower was repainted and ready to entertain visitors.
Majesty Score: 5
At 165 feet high, there's no doubt as to the lighthouse tower's majesty. The fire engine-red progressively slendering tower sits upon an egg-white base and everyone knows where the landmark is in the park at all times!
Water View Score: 4
The water view at Barnegat Light is very good!
There is a strip of water right next to the light that serves as a thruway for weekend boaters.
There is a very nice view of Island Beach across the channel and a great view of the ocean, especially from the top of the beacon.
Preservation Score: 3
The preservation that was completed in 1991 is still evident.
However, the light tower has some rust under the observation deck at the top of the tower and some signs of wear.
The park in certain places could use some repairs, such as on the concrete boardwalk that runs along the ocean from the light. (See right)
The park does offer picnic tables right next to the lighthouse that are well utilized. (See below right)
Surrounding Area Score: 4
Barnegat Lighthouse is on the tip of Long Beach Island. Long Beach Island is a very nice, summer-based community with a main strip of road down its center, and narrow, short roads on each side branch off of it.
Accessibility Score: 5
Barnegat Light has great accessibility! The light is left open on non-peak season weekends for visitors to climb the 217 steps to the observation deck, which is caged on the outside of the tower to allow climbers to really reap the benefits of the ocean wind and a 360-degree view! During peak season there is a charge to climb the tower.
Beacon Score: 1
The original Fresnel lens has been removed and can be seen at the nearby Barnegat Lighthouse Museum. The tower is currently lit with a flood light for aesthetic purposes.
Overall Score and Overview: 27
Barnegat Light is a great, towering light that lends itself to great pictures! The park is a very nice place to spend a few hours, so if you are ever in central Jersey you should make a stop at "Old Barney!"
For those
traveling from New England or New York, the Barnegat Lighthouse is the perfect halfway stop
between New York City and Cape May. Get out and stretch - and don't forget
your camera!
Directions: Garden State Parkway to Exit 63/Route 72 East. Take 72 East and turn left on Long Beach Blvd. Follow Long Beach Blvd. all the way north and make a left on Broadway.
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