Point Arena is roughly 90 miles north of San Francisco. It is the next major point north of Point Reyes for mariners travelling to and from the San Francisco Bay. The point is difficult to navigate due to its currents and reefs. Nearby Arena rock is a mile long and a mere six feet under water.

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In 1866, the US Government began plans to construct a lighthouse at Point Arena. Surveying began in 1867. Supplies for the lighthouse were transported to Arena Cove and hauled four miles overland to the lighthouse site. Local rock was deemed inadequate for the lighthouse, so a local company was contracted to produce bricks on-site.

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On April 18, 1906, the same earthquake which destroyed San Francisco also severely shook the lighthouse. The keeper's dwelling was damaged beyond repair, and the tower was cracked by the quake. Only the fog signal building survived. Virtually the entire station required replacement, and the keepers and their families had no viable residences.

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The new 115-foot tower was built of reinforced concrete - an innovation at the time. The tower construction was contracted to San Francisco's Concrete Chimney Company - hence the unique design. The staircase from the original lighthouse survived intact, and was used in the new tower. The tower was supported by a massive base to provide further support. Four single family homes were built to replace the keeper's dwelling. A first-order lens was installed and lit in 1908. The light characteristic was changed to flash every six seconds.

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The Coast Guard assumed responsibility for the station prior to World War II. During the war, extra guardsmen were assigned to patrol the area. One morning, Keeper William Owens spotted a submarine in the area one morning. A lumber schooner was sunk in the area the next day. It was not until much later that the US Navy would confirm the presence of the sub off the California Coast.

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In 1982, Point Arena Lighthouse Keeper's, Inc. received permission to conduct tours of the station. In 1984, the organization signed a twenty-five year lease to manage the station. The residences were opened to allow visitors to stay overnight. The fog signal building is now a museum.

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In 2006, the lighthouse was the subject of another film - this time a documentary. The independent film includes a description of Fresnel lenses, a history of the light, and an interview with the Owens sisters - daughters of Keeper William Owens.

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The Gazebo from 'Forever Young'

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Courtesy Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers

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References (see links)

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