The Crosby Beach Lighthouse, also known as the Formby Lighthouse, is a captivating historical structure that has played a vital role in the maritime history of the Port of Liverpool. Located on the picturesque Crosby Beach in Merseyside, UK, this lighthouse has stood as a sentinel, guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Crosby Channel for over two centuries.
The Lighthouse’s Origins and Transformation
The Crosby Beach Lighthouse was initially built as a landmark in the early 18th century to assist navigators. In 1831, it was converted into a fully functional lighthouse, working in conjunction with a lower mark and a new Formby Light vessel to guide ships safely through the newly fixed Crosby Channel.
The lighthouse stood at an impressive height of 120 feet, making it a valuable and prominent landmark for ships approaching the river. The conversion of the landmark into a lighthouse, including the addition of an attached dwelling for the keeper and a light reflector, cost a total of £300.
The Lighthouse Keepers and Tragic Incidents
The first keeper of the Crosby Beach Lighthouse was Lt. Walker, who tragically lost his life in 1832 while performing his duties as the keeper of the lifeboat during a severe gale. This incident underscores the challenges and risks that lighthouse keepers often faced in their efforts to ensure the safety of maritime vessels.
The Lighthouse’s Operational History
The Crosby Beach Lighthouse ceased operations as a lighthouse in 1839 but was relit between 1851 and 1856. After that, the light was removed to a new lighthouse at Crosby. The old lighthouse, often referred to as the “Methuselah of local nautical structures,” was finally demolished in 1941 due to concerns that German bombers were using it as a beacon during the May Blitz on Liverpool.
Crosby Beach: A Coastal Gem
Today, Crosby Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. The beach stretches for miles, providing ample space for walking, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the sand dunes and enjoy the nearby lake and park at the Waterloo end of the beach.
The Lighthouse’s Legacy
Although the Crosby Beach Lighthouse is no longer in operation, it remains a significant historical landmark and a popular subject for photographers and artists. Its image is incorporated into the medallions of the current Parish Council Chairman’s chain of office and the road sign situated on the Altcar boundary, reflecting its enduring importance in Formby’s nautical history.
Unique Features of the Crosby Beach Lighthouse
- Height: The lighthouse stood at an impressive height of 120 feet, making it a prominent landmark for ships approaching the river.
- Conversion Cost: The cost of converting the landmark into a lighthouse, including an attached dwelling for the keeper and a light reflector, was £300.
- Tragic Incident: The first keeper, Lt. Walker, tragically lost his life in 1832 while performing his duties as the keeper of the lifeboat during a severe gale.
- Operational History: The lighthouse ceased operations as a lighthouse in 1839 but was relit between 1851 and 1856. After that, the light was removed to a new lighthouse at Crosby.
- Demolition: The old lighthouse, referred to as the “Methuselah of local nautical structures,” was finally demolished in 1941 due to concerns that German bombers were using it as a beacon during the May Blitz on Liverpool.
- Incorporation into Local Landmarks: The image of the Crosby Beach Lighthouse is incorporated into the medallions of the current Parish Council Chairman’s chain of office and the road sign situated on the Altcar boundary, reflecting its importance in Formby’s nautical history.
Conclusion
The Crosby Beach Lighthouse is a captivating historical structure that has left an indelible mark on the maritime history of the Port of Liverpool. Its transformation from a landmark to a fully functional lighthouse, the tragic incidents associated with its keepers, and its eventual demolition all contribute to the rich tapestry of the lighthouse’s story. Today, the Crosby Beach Lighthouse remains a beloved landmark, inspiring visitors and locals alike to explore the coastal charm and natural beauty of this picturesque region.