Fenwick Shoals in the Atlantic at Fenwick Island

How dangerous were the Fenwick Shoals to mariners and ships a century ago?

The Fenwick Shoals, located off the coast of Fenwick Island, Delaware, have historically been a dangerous area for mariners and ships. The shallow waters and shifting sands of the shoals have posed a significant navigational hazard for vessels traveling along the coast.

Fenwick Shoals Quote Image

Many ships were known to have run aground on the Fenwick Shoals, causing significant damage and loss of life. As a result, the United States government decided to build a lighthouse on the shoals to help guide ships safely through the area. The Fenwick Island Lighthouse was completed in 1858 and has been in operation ever since, helping to reduce the number of shipwrecks and improve navigational safety in the region.

fenwick's island lighthouse architectural drawing
Fenwick’s Island Lighthouse Architectural Drawing

Today, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse continues to serve as an important navigational aid for mariners traveling along the coast. While modern navigation technology has greatly reduced the dangers posed by the Fenwick Shoals, the lighthouse remains a symbol of the challenges faced by sailors and ships in the past, and a testament to the ingenuity and determination of those who sought to improve safety at sea.

fenwick island lighthouse lens
Fenwick Island Lighthouse Lens

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