Pigeon Point Lighthouse's tall, double-walled tower supports a huge four-ton lens. The first-order, or largest, Fresnel lens has 1,008 glass elements mounted in a brass framework. This lens system was perfected by Augustin Fresnel, pronounced . . . — — Map (db m155249) HM
This brick lighthouse was built to incorporate a French first order Fresnel lens. Although no longer used, the lens is still operable in the lantern room. Previously the lens had been installed at Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. It first flashed over . . . — — Map (db m2541) HM
Pre-1800s: Ohlone Indians inhabit the coast
Early 1800s: Spanish name Punta de las Balenas - Whale Point
1850s: Clipper ship Carrier Pigeon wrecks on the rocks that are thereafter called Pigeon Point
1860: Boom and . . . — — Map (db m93355) HM