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Grindle Point Lighthouse Fun Facts
Location: Gilkey Harbor
Closest City: Islesboro, Maine
Latitude: 44.2817 Longitude: -68.9433
Body of Water: Penobscot River
Open to Public: Yes
Station Established: 1850
Present Tower Activated: 1874
Status of Light: Operational
Tower Height: 39 ft.
Optic: 250mm, 1987
Fifth Order Fresnel, 1874
National Register Reference #: 87000427
Listing Name: Grindle Point Light Station
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The original Grindle Point lighthouse was built in 1850. The 39 foot, square, brick tower was updated in 1874 and received a fifth order Fresnel lens. The existing cape-cod style, 1.5 story, wood-frame keeper's residence, which is attached to the tower, was constructed at the same time. The site also has a boathouse and a brick oil house (1906). In 1934, the tower was deactivated and light duties were taken over by a new skeletal structure nearby. Upon learning of plans for the modern tower, the Town of Islesboro petitioned the Bureau of Lighthouses to be given ownership of the exisiting site to ensure it remained as a tribute to the many sailors that originated from Islesboro's shores. Again at the behest of Islesboro residents, the light was restored to the original tower in 1987 and the skeletal structure was removed.
Today, a 250mm optic shines brightly to guide vessels into Gilkey Harbor. The keeper's house has been transformed into the Islesboro Sailor's Memorial Museum and is furnished as it was when it housed keepers. The original fog bell is on display as well. The station, located at the Islesboro ferry terminal and accessible via the ferry out of Lincolnville, is still owned by the Town of Islesboro and is open to the public (207-734-2253).
Lighthouse Accessibility
- The station is located at the Islesboro ferry terminal and is accessible via the ferry out of Lincolnville.
- The grounds are open to the public and the tower is occassionally opened for pre-arranged tours (207.734.2253).
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