The Southeast Light on beautiful Block Island is the highest light above in New England. Standing two hundred and one feet above sea level, it's flashing green light every five seconds can be seen from twenty four miles away. And in fog, it's very welcome horn has helped many a mariner find his way home - including me!

Built in 1875, on the southeast end of the island, this light, like many others had to be relocated or chance falling into the sea. The unstoppable cliff erosion finally endangering this beautiful structure.

While this light enjoys celebrity status among commercial sea traffic in and out of the New England area, Southeast Light is also well known to fishermen and racing sailors.

Block Island Race Week, a huge annual regatta held in June, includes an 'Around the Island' race. And one of the turning marks is a buoy located below the southeast cliffs, close to shore and directly under the light.  Because of the prevailing winds, the racing fleet is usually flying spinnakers when sailing past this area.

If you can imagine a couple of hundred sailboats on parade, with huge colorful sails filled by the wind, you will quickly conclude that it is one of the most memorable sights you will ever see.

And, there is no better place to observe this magnificent spectacle, than from Southeast Light.

Al LaBanca, 

Sailor/Artist, Darien, CT