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Prince's Bay Lighthouse built in 1828, guided ships sailing
along the coast of Staten Island bound for the ports of New York
and New Jersey.
The original wooden structure served the maritime community
until the time of the Civil War. In 1864, a new lighthouse constructed with
brownstone brick replaced the older structure. Prince’s Bay light aided
local fishermen and the shipping traffic caused by the booming oyster business.
Oyster farming was a major industry for Staten Island during the 1800’s,
fueling the island’s growing economy. In 1922, the lighthouse was
deactivated. |
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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation operates the lighthouse as part of its Mount Loretto Unique Area. While the public cannot enter the building, they can view the lighthouse from the wooden gate surrounding the keepers house. The rest of the property is operated as a nature preserve and the public is invited to walk to the trails from dawn until dusk. |
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