Eddystone Reefs and Their History of Shipwrecks

Offshore from Plymouth, the Eddystone Reefs have claimed dozens of ships over centuries. These rocks are barely visible at high tide, making them a deadly hazard for sailors.

Henry Winstanley's Ambitious Lighthouse

An English engineer named Henry Winstanley built the first Eddystone lighthouse between 1696 and 1698. He had lost two of his own ships on the reefs and aimed to create a structure that would prevent further tragedies.

Construction Challenges and Unique Features

The lighthouse was an octagonal wooden tower with a 4.6-meter-high lantern and 3.4-meter-wide base. It could hold up to sixty candles and a large suspended lamp. The construction was extremely difficult, with harsh weather and isolation.

Winstanley's Confidence and Tragic Fate

Winstanley was confident in his lighthouse's strength and even claimed he wanted to be inside during the worst storm. This wish came true in 1703, when the Great Storm destroyed the lighthouse and killed him and five others.

Impact of the Storm and Winstanley's Legacy

The storm was the worst in UK history, killing at least 8,000 people. The lighthouse was completely destroyed, leaving only iron fittings in the rock. Just two days later, a ship ran aground, showing how vital the lighthouse had been.

Rebuilding and Continuing the Legacy

Engineer John Rudyard was tasked with building a new lighthouse on the same site. This continued the tradition of lighthouse builders risking their lives to protect sailors, a legacy that still resonates today.