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The Point Cabrillo Light Station in Medocino, CA, in operation since 1909, is getting a major face-lift with restoration of the building, and its original third order Fresnel lens.
The Fresnel lens at Point Cabrillo was decommissioned by the Coast Guard in 1973, and replaced by a modern beacon. The Coast Guard is working with staff at the Coastal Conservancy to totally refurbish the Fresnel lens and allow it to once again shine its beam out to sea.
To the best of anyone's knowledge, this will be the first time on the west coast of the United States that an original Fresnel lens will be reinstated as an operating aid to navigation.
After years of planning, grant writing, research and crossing their fingers, the team has successfully dismantled the Fresnel lens, and crated it for restoration. The lantern room is being removed from the tower and lowered to the ground and will be totally restored, to await the re-installation of the Fresnel lens. It is hoped that all the restoration can be completed in time for the lighthouse to be re-lit on August 7, National Lighthouse Day 1999.
This story appeared in the December 1998 edition of Lighthouse Digest Magazine. For subscription information about the print edition, click here.
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