Uncover the History of Burrows Island Lighthouse in Skagit County

A Hidden Gem on Washington’s Coastline

Skagit County, nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, is home to some of Washington State’s most charming and historic coastal landmarks—including the Burrows Island Light. Located just off the coast of Anacortes, Washington, this lighthouse is a beacon of maritime history, natural beauty, and quiet Pacific solitude.

Whether you’re a history buff, a lighthouse lover, or a weekend explorer, this is one stop you don’t want to miss. Let’s dive into the rich backstory of this incredible coastal sentinel.

Burrows Island Lighthouse History: A Beacon Since 1906

After numerous petitions from local mariners and years of congressional requests, funding was finally approved for a lighthouse on Burrows Island in 1903. Designed by Carl Leick—one of the most renowned lighthouse architects of the era—the structure was built by contractors Barnett and Farmer in 1905.

Perched on the western tip of Burrows Island, facing the treacherous Rosario Strait, the lighthouse officially lit up the strait for the first time on April 1, 1906. It quickly became a critical navigational aid for ships sailing past Fidalgo Island and the San Juan Islands.

Originally, the lighthouse used a Daboll trumpet powered by gasoline engines for its fog signal—quite advanced for its time. It also featured a fourth-order Fresnel lens mounted in a 34-square-foot tower attached to the fog signal building.

Life at the Lighthouse

The first keepers, Captain James Hermann and his assistant Edward Pfaff, maintained the station, which included:

• The lighthouse and fog signal building
• A boathouse and workshop
• A coal and oil storage building
• A large duplex used as living quarters

Due to the island’s rugged cliffs and steep shorelines, a derrick system was needed to haul supplies from arriving boats. Access was difficult, but the keepers were dedicated to their duty.

Modernization & Restoration

In 1972, the Burrows Island Lighthouse was automated. Its historic Fresnel lens was replaced by modern optics, and the keeper’s house was demolished to make way for a helicopter landing pad.

In 2011, the Northwest Schooner Society launched a restoration campaign to preserve and restore the site’s historic buildings, which had been weathered by the elements and vandalism over the years.

As of 2024, the lighthouse has officially been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its legacy for generations to come.

Visiting Burrows Island Light

While not as easily accessible as some lighthouses in Washington, the journey to Burrows Island—by kayak, boat, or scenic charter—is absolutely worth the effort. The island offers rugged coastal scenery, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and a deep sense of history waiting to be explored.

Live the Coastal Dream in Anacortes with Servoss Realty

Imagine waking up to panoramic views of the Salish Sea, with historic icons like the Burrows Island Lighthouse just offshore. When you choose to live in Anacortes with Servoss Realty, you’re not just buying a home—you’re investing in a lifestyle steeped in Pacific Northwest beauty, maritime heritage, and small-town charm. From waterfront properties to cozy neighborhoods tucked near forested trails, Servoss Realty helps you find the perfect home base to explore Skagit County’s coastal treasures. Whether you’re kayaking near Burrows Bay, catching sunsets at Washington Park, or diving into local history, Anacortes offers the ideal balance of adventure and tranquility.