Cape Hinchinbrook LH

• Strategic Location: Cape Hinchinbrook Light (LH) is located at the entrance to Prince William Sound, Alaska, serving as a critical navigation aid for vessels entering the sound from the Gulf of Alaska. • Established in 1910: The lighthouse was first lit in 1910, following several shipwrecks in the dangerous waters surrounding the cape, highlighting its necessity for maritime safety. • World War II Role: During World War II, the lighthouse and its grounds were militarized, serving as a lookout point for Japanese submarines and as part of the broader coastal defense network in Alaska. • Harsh Weather Conditions: The station is famous for enduring some of the harshest weather in Alaska, with hurricane-force winds and frequent storms, making service there particularly challenging for its keepers and military personnel. • Automated in 1974: The light was automated in 1974, ending the era of resident lighthouse keepers. The U.S. Coast Guard continued to maintain the facility. • Rescue Missions: Personnel stationed at Cape Hinchinbrook LH participated in numerous rescue operations, assisting distressed vessels and saving lives in treacherous conditions. • Earthquake Survival: The original lighthouse tower survived the massive 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, one of the most powerful earthquakes in North American history. • Military Communications Hub: During the Cold War, Cape Hinchinbrook served as a relay point for military communications due to its elevated and remote position. • Unique Architecture: The lighthouse is notable for its distinctive square concrete tower, built to withstand the region’s seismic activity and severe weather. • Historical Landmark: Today, Cape Hinchinbrook Light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its military and maritime significance to Alaska and the United States.