Built in 1857, New Dungeness is the second oldest light in Washington; just a short pace behind Cape Disappointment. Guarding shipping from five mile long Dungeness Spit, the light once stood 100' tall. The concussion from artillery pieces at Fort Rodd Hill, across the Strait of Juan De Fuca on Vancouver Island, caused the tower to become weakened; it was lowered to its present 63' height in 1927. At the time this photo was taken in early 1988, New Dungeness was still staffed by the Coast Guard. Today, it is a popular destination for volunteers, who sign up in advance to spend time tending the facility.