The History of the Lighthouse

In the year 2000, LightBulbs.com was registered under the name Lite-House.com.  It only made sense that we named ourselves after such an acclaimed cultural source of light; one that guides, paves the way and serves, just as we do.

In the words following, I'll simply be paying homage to the lighthouse and providing insight into its fascinating history.

There are over three million shipwrecks on the ocean floor.

Much of history has depended on maritime travel, despite it being a very risky and dangerous way of transportation.

In history, lighthouses signaled the occupancy of a port/establishment.  As time went on, they became more of a warning to marine vessels about reefs, dangerous rocks and shallow waters, keeping boats safely afloat.

Furthermore, a lighthouse signifies the end of a journey; spreading the hope that home is just ahead.

It says, "You're almost finished."

It brings the boats home.  

The History of the Lighthouse

According to ancient Greek legend, lighthouses were invented sometime in the few hundred years B.C. Though the actual historical documentation of lighthouses is shrouded in Greek mythology, some information can be derived from one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World:

The Lighthouse of Alexandria.

(I'd bet you haven't heard that name since the 7th grade, eh?)

Sometimes known as the Pharos of Alexandria, (pharos meaning the English word, “peninsula”), the Lighthouse of Alexandria was one of the first ever documented lighthouses; and, understandably so, as it stood over 300 feet tall and, for many centuries, was the tallest man-made structure on the planet.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria was abandoned sometime in the 14th century due to how damaged it had become from earthquakes, and was later salvaged and renovated into the Citadel of Qaitbay, which is still active today.

As far as illumination methods in ancient times, fires were lit and kept alive through the cold nights by coals.  They were guarded from harsh winds by windows and mirrors, which also helped to project the light farther than it could naturally project itself

Up until the late 1700s, lighthouse illuminants consisted only of mere candles, wood and coals, until an efficient oil-based circular wick was fashioned and put into practice. 

The Modern Era of the Lighthouse

Due to international trade across the Atlantic Ocean, the construction of lighthouses boomed in what is known as the modern era of lighthouse construction, beginning in the 18th century.  The first lighthouse to undertake a more modern aesthetic and construction was the Eddystone lighthouse in England.  It was created in a way far more durable than previous lighthouses and was the first subjected to constant contact with the sea.

The construction of the Eddystone lighthouse had to be perfect, as the rocks on which the site was located were overwhelmingly dangerous.  Its designer modeled the base of the lighthouse after that of an oak tree, and, after proven successful, this method became an industry standard.

The first American lighthouse was built in 1716, in the Boston Harbor, and many more were constructed around this time along the coast of the North-Eastern United States.  American lighthouses were generally constructed of wood, but due to the fire hazard, stonework became the desired material.

With masonry, the construction was perfected.  Efficient illumination methods then became the primary focus for lighthouse engineers.  After experimenting with several different types of oils and air-flow techniques, a system for gas usage was developed.  This became the standard for all lighthouses until electrical engineering became more prominent in the late 18th century.

With the invention of the light bulb, the illumination of lighthouses was drastically changed for the better.  Due to the reflection of the glass panels, lighthouses can give off over one million candle power by using only a 1000-Watt Metal Halide Lamp, and sometimes, a 1000-Watt Halogen Lamp.

Since then, lighthouses have seen little evolving.  In a world of many things, they are one that have stayed pretty much the same for a long time.

Lighthouse Symbolism

“A lighthouse is a steady and grounded structure that guides people to safety. With a goal of guidance, it illuminates the darkest of times, bringing you love and hope.”

--Ani Ferlise, "Illuminated Guidance"

A lighthouse is the face of sanctuary in the seas of adversity.  It symbolizes the light at the end of the tunnel; serving as an encouragement for those who seem to have lost their one last try.  Nothing says, “You made it,” better than a light in the darkness, and that is exactly what a lighthouse does.  It says, "Stay safe," and "It'll be alright,"...

When life has felt like a vigorous voyage and all you've felt are waves, rain and hardships, you'd give anything to be home, and to hear that you're nearly done, and that's exactly what a lighthouse does.

It says, "You're almost finished".

It brings the boats home.