Cove Point Lighthouse

From www.uscg.mil:

Location: Western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, 4 miles north of the entrance to the Patuxent River
Date Built: Commissioned December 1828
Type of Structure: Conical brick tower with detached keeper’s dwelling
Height: 38 feet
Characteristics: Flashing white
Foghorn: Yes
Builder: John Donahoo
Appropriation: $6,000
Range: 19 miles
Status: Standing and Active

Historical Information:

An appropriation request was made to Congress in 1925 for a light to mark Cedar Point – the entrance to the Patuxent River. After surveys of the area were made, it was recommended that the light should be built at Cove Point, four miles further north, and used in conjunction with a light vessel at Cedar Point. This would allow it to guide both north and south-bound vessels while also marking the river. In February of 1828 Congress appropriated $6,000. The four and a half acres at Cove Point were purchased for $300 and John Donahoo was awarded the construction contract. Work began on the brick tower and keepers dwelling that summer. Like other Donahoo lights, Cove point is a conical tower. It has three small windows and is surmounted by a cast iron, circular lantern. The tower contains a wooden spiral staircase fitted into the brick. It also incorporates a counterweight shaft that runs from the lantern to the ground. The light which consisted of 11 parabolic reflector lamps, was first exhibited in December 1828.