Marshall Point Lighthouse

About

Introduction:

Some readers may remember this lighthouse, with its elevated walkway, as the point where Tom Hanks’ character, Forrest Gump, ran down when he reached East Coast during his epic run.

Hollywood aside, Marshall Point Lighthouse is the main aid to navigation for guiding boaters and mariners into Port Clyde from the Atlantic Ocean and Muscongous Bay and stands 30 feet above the water. A fixed white light is affixed to the top of the lighthouse and a fog signal blasts every 10 seconds during periods of low visibility.

History:

One of Maine’s oldest lighthouses, Marshall Point Lighthouse was established as a light station in 1832, and the lighthouse itself was constructed in 1857 of granite and brick.

The light station was established here in 1832, while the actual building was constructed in 1857. The United States Coast Guard automated the lighthouse in 1971 and replaced its old optics with a new 300mm lens.

Navigating in and Around the Lighthouse:

Use NOAA Chart 13301.

Port Clyde lies southeast of the Saint George River, and is a popular stopover point and location for tours that explore the remote islands and outposts of the Atlantic Ocean and Muscoungous Bay. The Marshall Point Lighthouse serves as the main aid to navigation to mark Port Clyde’s location.

Local Notices to Mariners:

Local Notices to Mariners are available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Tour Schedule:

The lighthouse grounds are available to tour, and there is ample parking near the property. The lighthouse itself, unfortunately, is not available for tours or open to the public.