The First American Public Works Project: the Cape Henry Lighthouse, 1792
Alexander Hamilton 🇺🇸, the first Secretary of the Treasury of the United States, was a man of many talents. He personally supervised the construction of the first American public works project: the Cape Henry Lighthouse. 💡 The new federal government had decided that the southern entrance to the Chesapeake Bay needed a lighthouse to guide ships to safety. It was built in 1792.
Hamilton knew that lighthouses were essential for maritime safety, and he was determined to build the best lighthouse the country had ever seen. He spared no expense on the Cape Henry Lighthouse, using the finest materials and the most skilled craftsmen.
The result was a magnificent lighthouse that stood 55 feet tall and had a lantern room that could be seen for up to 18 miles out to sea. The Cape Henry Lighthouse quickly became a landmark, and it has played an important role in American history ever since. It was a witness to the War of 1812, the Civil War, and World War II. It has also been a beacon of hope for immigrants and travelers coming to the United States.
Of course, Hamilton's lighthouse was not without its critics. Some people thought it was too expensive, while others complained that it was too tall. But Hamilton stood his ground. He knew that the Cape Henry Lighthouse was a necessary investment, and he was proud of what he had accomplished.
Today, the Cape Henry Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination 🏛️. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse is also home to a museum that tells the story of its history.
© US Department of Transportation
