Bodie Island Lighthouse - OBX trip, part 6

2008.06.07

He's like a mountain goat, with the ability to climb sharp, pointy rocks without falling on his face.

The Herbert C. Bonner bridge, which provides the only access to Hatteras Island, other than by boat or plane.

The keeper's quarters, with the lighthouse beyond.

The stairway at the base. Notice the fallout shelter sign on the right.

Looking up the circular staircase.

Trying out the infrared effect.

Though not as tall as the Cape Hatteras lighthouse, Bodie Island is just as beautiful.

I had wondered about the name "Body's Island" in the marble plaque above. I knew it was pronounced "body" rather than "boadie," but to see it spelled "Body's" was a surprise. I found the answer on Wikipedia: "The name is derived from the original name of the area, which was 'Bodies Island', after the Body family from whom the land was purchased."

The lighthouse is not open for climbing, because it is not in good shape. In fact, it was closed to the public for several years, until some emergency repairs were made last year. Unfortunately, though the lighthouse is in need of a complete restoration, this (and other National Parks Service funds) keep getting shut out of the federal budget.

I love lighthouses so much ...excellent!

????? · 2008-06-08: 12:56

#5 and #10--outstanding! My sister (Dancing Dolphin) and her hubby took me to Hatt. Is. when I was a kid--and a tremendous storm came up out of nowhere!! We were tent camping, so it was pretty scary. We got the heck out of there, with tent poles sticking out of the car, the tent wadded up, and all of us diving into the Scirocco for cover! Great memories...

mowestlan · 2008-06-08: 14:29