Bells Rock Light

Nov. 13, 2019
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Bells Rock Light, York River, near West Point, Virginia

BELLS ROCK LIGHT

Lighthouse Name: Bells Rock Lighthouse
Location: York River, near West Point, Virginia
Date Built: 1881
Type of Structure: screwpile, hexagonal house
Characteristics: fixed white
Lens: fourth order
Foghorn: yes
Height: 40 feet
Appropriation: $35,000
Status: dismantled in 1928

Historical Information:   

  • The first lighthouse was assembled at the Lazaretto Lighthouse Depot in 1880 but was sent to Thimble Shoal when that light burned down.
  • In 1884 the lighthouse was damaged when it was hit by a schooner.
  • The light was dismantled in 1928 when an automated light was placed on the original foundation.

The above was researched and drafted by William Simms, a Chesapeake Chapter of the U.S. Light House Society volunteer.