Bodie Island Lighthouse

Of all the early North Carolina lighthouses, Bodie had the rockiest beginnings. Disagreements over location delayed original construction for 10 years; after it was built, one side sank by a foot, causing the lamp to stop functioning. Attempts to prop up the building failed, and so in 1859 a 90-foot tall brick tower became the new Bodie Island Lighthouse. Just two years later, however, Confederate soldiers worried that it would become a Union lookout blew it up.

A third Bodie Island Lighthouse, including quarters for the keeper, began operation in 1872. Soon after, a flock of geese flew into the lighthouse, breaking glass panes and damaging the lens; fortunately, better screens eliminated that problem.
The light was electrified in 1932, eliminating the need for a keeper.

The entire 15-acre property—except the tower—was transferred to the National Park Service in 1953 and is now part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Because the lighthouse is still an operating Coast Guard navigational aid, it is not open to the public, but the old keeper's house serves as a visitor's center and museum.

Restoration Plans and Progress
The lighthouse is badly deteriorating. All metal components at the top, including the lantern room, gallery deck and support brackets, are severely corroded. Doors, windows and other wooden components are beginning to rot.

In November 2000, the park received a $200,000 federal Save America's Treasures grant, and the State of North Carolina provided matching funds totaling $160,000. The grant is being used for necessary planning needed prior to major restoration, and minor rehab projects.

Public Access
The base of the lighthouse is occasionally open to the public, though there are no set times. The lighthouse is not open for climbing. The nearby keeper's quarters is open daily (except Christmas) from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and includes a museum and bookstore.

Contact Information
Bodie Island Lighthouse
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
1401 National Park Rd.
Manteo, NC 27954
Phone: 252-473-2111
Website: www.nps.gov
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Other Points of Interest
Explore these links on the National Trust’s Web site to learn more about how preservation benefits individuals and communities.

America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places
Since 1988, this list has been one of the most effective tools in the fight to save America's irreplaceable architectural, cultural, and natural heritage. Use the new 11 Most Endangered database to learn about threatened sites in North Carolina.
Website: www.nationaltrust.org/11most

Dozen Distinctive Destinations
These communities offer travelers enjoyable natural, historic, aesthetic, recreational, and cultural experiences all in one place. One of the choices in 2003 was Edenton, NC, a Colonial-era community at the opposite end of the Albemarle Sound from the Bodie Island Lighthouse.
Website: www.nationaltrust.org/dozen_distinctive_destinations

Historic Hotels
When visiting eastern North Carolina, expand the historic travel experience by staying at one of the 200 members of National Trust Historic Hotels of America. The nearest Historic Hotel of America is:

The Carolina Inn
Website: www.nationaltrust.org/historic_hotels