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Lightship Chesapeake
Beacon of the Bay
Aptly named for Baltimore's gateway to the world, the Lightship 116 Chesapeake was launched in 1930 to help protect and guide ships to safe harbor with its 1,000-watt light masthead, foghorn and bell. Such floating lighthouses played a critical role in early 20th century navigation, and even served as coastal patrol boats during World War II.
With its then state-of-the-art diesel-electric engines, all-steel body, and powerful signaling equipment, Lightship Chesapeake's rugged construction allowed it to serve in even the roughest weather. Retired in 1970, the Lightship Chesapeake is today a National Historic Landmark and is a proud addition to Baltimore's Inner Harbor "fleet". |