Hereford Light’s Sister Lighthouses

Hereford Light’s Sister Lighthouses

Did you know that North Wildwood’s Hereford Inlet Lighthouse has a counterpart on the opposite side of the United States? What’s even more fascinating is that it has two additional sister lighthouses.

Let’s start with Hereford Light. Its architectural design can be attributed to Paul J. Pelz, a German-American architect who migrated to the United States in late 1851. Initially residing in New York City, Pelz honed his skills in the field of design under the tutelage of architect Detlef Lienau.

In 1867, Pelz relocated to Washington DC and was appointed as the civil engineer for the United States Lighthouse Board. During his tenure, he rose to the position of chief draftsman on the Lighthouse Board, contributing significantly to the development of various lighthouses.

Between 1871 and 1875, eleven lighthouses were constructed based on Pelz’s blueprints. Hereford Inlet Light, our beloved lighthouse, was the seventh to be built, completed by the year 1874. Among these 11 lighthouses, only two others shared similar characteristics.

While these three lighthouses may not have been exact replicas, they all adhered to a similar thematic design, showcasing Pelz’s distinctive touch.

The sister lighthouses are located at;

Mare Island Lighthouse

The Mare Island Lighthouse, located in Vallejo, California, stands as a historic beacon of maritime heritage. Built in 1873, it served as a guiding light for ships entering the Mare Island Strait, leading them safely through the treacherous waters of San Pablo Bay. With its distinctive Victorian architecture, the lighthouse exudes charm and elegance.

Over the years, it witnessed the growth and transformation of Mare Island Naval Shipyard, playing a vital role in ensuring the security and navigation of vessels. Although decommissioned in 1917, the Mare Island Lighthouse remains a cherished landmark, attracting visitors with its rich history and picturesque setting overlooking the bay.

Point Fermin Lighthouse 

Point Fermin Lighthouse, perched atop a rugged bluff in San Pedro, California, is a testament to coastal navigation and a window into the region’s past. Built-in 1874, this charming Victorian-era lighthouse served as a guiding beacon for ships traversing the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean.

With its distinctive white facade and red roof, Point Fermin Lighthouse stands as a picturesque landmark, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Now a museum, it provides visitors with a glimpse into the daily lives of lighthouse keepers and the maritime history of the area. 

Out of the 11 lighthouses constructed by Paul J. Pelz, only 7 still stand today. Unfortunately, the remaining lighthouses were either destroyed by fires or intentionally demolished.

Fortunately, with the assistance of two friends residing on the East coast, we have created a captivating video showcasing both of the remaining sister lighthouses. We invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the fascinating journey presented in the video!