History:
Standing one hundred and sixty feet above the sea, the twin lighthouses of Thacher Island have stood guard over the coasts of Cape Ann ,Massachusetts , since 1771.

Anchored firmly on granite ledge, they overlook a fifty acre island, set three quarters of a mile off-shore from the Town of Rockport and its picturesque harbor. Providing support to these sentinels of the sea are a complex of keeper's quarters, trails, oil houses, granite storage buildings and slate roofed oil house and barn. A landing ramp and boathouse provide access to the island, and a network of railroad tracks and trestles, complete with a turntable was used to haul coal and oil to the old whistle house, where steam was used to generate the powerful fog signal.

Source: Thacher Island Association

Hours:
Although the island may be viewed from the shore it is best to actually go there. The best way to do that is by becoming a member of the Thacher Island Association.

From the Association:

"You may then join us each Saturday morning from 9AM till 11AM starting in July and running thru the end of August (weather permitting) aboard the Thacher Island launch for an exciting 30 minute ride out to this magnificent historical island. You must make reservations in advance by calling 978-546-7697. Seats are limited because the Thacher Island launch only accommodates 15 passengers. We only make one trip per Saturday."

Latitude/Longitude: 42°38'N 70°35'W

• From Gloucester, take Route 127A north.
• Take a right onto Penzance Road. There is a triangle at the intersection.
• Follow Penzance Road until you get to OLD Penzance Road. Take a left onto OLD Penzance Road.
• Park at the end of the road.

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