1871-1900 Yaquina Head Lighthouse Letter books

Subject: Portland, Oreg., Dec. 29, 1900

The Light-House Board, Washington, D. C.

Sirs; I have the honor to report that additional quarters are very badly needed at the Yaquina Head, Or., Ediz Hook, Wash., New dungeness, Wash., and Robinson Point, Wash., Light-Stations.

At Yaquina Head Light-Station there are three keepers, the quarters comprise one double dwelling which is occupied by the keeper and one assistant with families. This leaves the other assistant without quarters as there is no room in the double dwelling. This condition of affairs has existed ever since the light was established in 1881 and one assistant has been compelled to occupy a building erected for temporary use as an office by the contractors for the erection of the tower and dwelling, being flimsily constructed in the first instance, its condition has gradually grown worse and worse until now it is practically uninhabitable and new quarters should be provided. It has been patched and repaired all it will stand. For the last two years recommendation has been made in the annual report that an appropriation be obtained for a new dwelling but so far without avail. A suitable dwelling can be constructed for $4,000.00.

At Ediz Hook Light-Station the dwelling is arranged for the accommodation of one family, but as there are two keepers employed the quarters are insufficient and a new dwelling is urgently needed. 163

Office of U.S. Light-House Engineer, THIRTEENTH DISTRICT, Portland, Oregon Nov. 27th, 1886.

To the Chairman Of the Light House Board. Washington, D.C.

Sir: Referring to the Board’s letter of May 10th, 1886. requesting plots of the light station of this district, I have the honor to forward in separate package plots of the following stations:---- Cape Blanco. Cape Arago. Cape Foulweather. Tillamook Rock. Very respectfully, Your obedient servant. Chas F. Lowell Captain of Engineers Enclosures in separate package) Engineer 13th L.H. Dist.

Office of U.S. Light-House Engineer, THIRTEENTH DISTRICT, Portland, Oregon July 14th, 1886.

To the Chairman Of the Light-House Board, Washington, D.C. Sir: I have the honor to submit herewith report of engineer operations in this district for month of June, 1886. 626 – Cape Blanco. Lumber and posts for re-building fence around dwelling and tower were delivered at the station. 627 – Cape Arago The re-building of the tramway and steps, from beach to the top of bluff, was completed. The timbers of the new work were raised clear of the ground and all the lumber was planed and painted.

Letter #732

Office of U.S. Light-House Engineer, THIRTEENTH DISTRICT, Portland, Oregon August 15th, June 30 1887.

To the Chairman of the Light House Board. Washington, D.C.

Sir: I have the honor to submit the following annual report, to June 30th, 1887, of engineer operations in the 13th L.-H. Dist.:------ This District extends from the southern boundary of Oregon to the boundary between the United States and British Columbia and embraces all aids to navigation on the Pacific Coast of Oregon and Washington Territory and in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, Straits of Fuca and Puget Sound. In the district there are Light-Houses and lighted beacons 46 Fog-signals operated by steam or hot air 6 “ “ clockwork 2.

Office of the Light House Engineer Thirteenth District Portland, Oregon August 19th 1884

To the Chairman of the Light-House Board Washington DC

Sir: I have the honor to submit herewith, report of engineer operations in this district during the month of July.

542 – Cape Blanco The lumber for the new barn having been delivered, its erection was commenced on the 11th, and the work was about one-third completed as the end of the month. Yaquina (Light discontinued) A topographical survey of the lighthouse land was made. The boundary was already marked by stone monuments.