Five iconic lighthouses stand tall along the Cape Ann coastline to protect seafarers from rocky shores and shoals. They offer historians and romantics alike a glimpse into Cape Ann’s maritime lore and legacy. Lighthouses are a comfort to mariners to this day, and despite the use of GPS and electronic aids for navigation, they still symbolize home and safety.
Eastern Point Lighthouse was erected on Gloucester’s Eastern Point to mark the harbor entrance in 1832. In addition to the light, there is a large lighthouse station, which continues to serve as housing for the U.S. Coast Guard. One of the station’s more famous occupants was Winslow Homer. The noted artist spent a year living at the light in 1880. Although not open to visitors the lighthouse presents a wonderful view, especially from the vantage point of the adjacent Dog Bar Breakwater.
