The St. George Reef is the peak of a submerged volcanic mountain six miles off the northern coast of California. Rough weather with howling winds and crashing waves create a mist that obliterates the peaks and creates dangers for mariners.The St. George Lighthouse was built in response to the sinking of the Brother Jonathan. It took 11 years to complete and cost the US almost $705,000. The top of the lighthouse is almost 150 ft above the ocean.The only way to access the lighthouse is via a 60ft boom. A large hook would hoist small boats onto the rock.The winter of 1952 was the harshest in history at the reef. During one storm, 160-foot waves swept over the lighthouse, shattering a window in the lantern room. Model by Peter Cruttenden on display at the Del Norte County Historical Society. In 1937, the lightkeepers were cut off from the mainland for over a month because of harsh weather. The crew, who had worked together for years became so tense and stir crazy they stopped conversing and even ate meals facing away from each other. It was said to be unbearable. The weather finally broke after 59 days, a supply boat arrived and life at the lighthouse returned to normal. Poster on display at the Del Norte County Historical Society.St. George was decommissioned in 1975, replaced by a navigational buoy. The 6,000 pound Fresnel lens was removed by the Coast Guard in 1983 and is now on display at the Del Norte County Historical Society.
Tidbit: Living conditions at the lighthouse, 7 miles from shore, were rough. Of the 80 men who served, 37 resigned and 26 requested transfers to other stations.
