Nestled in the rugged waters of Alaska, the state’s oldest lighthouse bravely stands on its own, protecting mariners in the Lynn Canal. Eldred Rock Lighthouse was first lit in 1906; today we’ll take a little step back into the history of this brave little tower.
Architecture and Historical Significance
The Eldred Rock Lighthouse has a unique fat and squat octagonal design. The lighthouse was built in response to the numerous shipwrecks that plagued the area during the Gold Rush era. One of the most notable tragedies was the sinking of the steamship Clara Nevada.
Lost on a stormy night in 1898, the ship took with it 75 lives and a fortune in gold, stirring every treasure hunter’s imagination for the last 100 or so years. The ship itself had had structural issues, and ultimately found it’s demise on a rock on the Lynn Canal.
A Haven for Wildlife
Surrounding Eldred Rock is a thriving ecosystem, rich in wildlife. The area is not just a historical landmark, but also a sanctuary for various marine species. Visitors often spot otters splashing in the waters, with whales lazing just underneath the water. The Stellar sea lions, with their distinctive barks, add to the lively ambiance of this little haven.
The Lighthouse Today
As with all great lighthouses, the day of reckoning (automation) faced Eldred Rock in 1973. Today, it stands as a National Historic Place, attracting attention for its historical significance and ongoing efforts to preserve it.
Supplementary Nuggets of Gold
- “Eldred Rock Lighthouse: Alaska’s Maritime Beacon,” Alaska Historical Society.
- “Shipwrecks and Lighthouses: The Story of Clara Nevada,” Gold Rush Tales.
- “Marine Life Around Eldred Rock,” Alaska Oceanographic Institute.
- “The Life and Trials of Lighthouse Keepers,” Lighthouse Keepers Association.
- “Conserving Alaska’s Lighthouses: The Eldred Rock Case,” National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Lighthouse Explorers 