Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse

Trip ideas while visiting Annapolis in Maryland

Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse

The story of the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse goes back to 1824 when the government allocated $6,500 to build a 30-foot tower on land. However, it wasn’t until November 1875 that the lighthouse was first illuminated. Fast forward to 1975, and the lighthouse received recognition as a historic site when it was included in the National Register of Historic Places. Until 1986, the Coast Guard operated the lighthouse, but it eventually became the last fully automated lighthouse in the Chesapeake Bay. Remarkably, it remains in its original location as the only screw-pile lighthouse in the bay. Nowadays, the City of Annapolis owns the lighthouse, and the United States Lighthouse Society is responsible for its management.

Step into a 1 1/2-hour journey and be transported to the enchanting era of the 1800s. Explore the captivating history of the lighthouse as friendly guides unveil its secrets. Discover how the dedicated lighthouse keepers lived their lives, ensuring the safety of seafarers. Delve into the significant role played by the Coast Guard throughout the lighthouse’s existence. Witness firsthand the ongoing efforts to restore and preserve this magnificent structure for future generations to cherish.