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One sheet vintage
British Railways travel poster for "East Coast Landmarks," specifically featuring the Orfordness Lighthouse on Orford Ness, near Woodbridge, Suffolk. The artwork was created by Frank Henry Mason (1876–1965), a renowned marine and railway poster artist.
History of Orfordness Lighthouse
Built: The lighthouse depicted was completed in 1792, designed by architect William Wilkins. It was the 11th beacon to stand on the shifting shingle spit of Orford Ness.
Operation: For over 200 years, it guided ships through the treacherous sandbanks of the North Sea. It was automated in 1964 and became unmanned the following year.
Decommissioning: Due to severe coastal erosion bringing the sea perilously close to its foundations, the lighthouse was decommissioned in June 2013.
Current Status: Demolished
As of 2026, the lighthouse no longer stands.
Demolition: After storms in late 2019 and early 2020 made the structure unsafe, it was "deconstructed" in July and August 2020 to prevent it from collapsing into the sea.
Preservation: The Orfordness Lighthouse Trust salvaged key artifacts, including the lantern room and internal cabinets, with the goal of creating a permanent memorial or visitor center at a safer distance from the shore.
The Lens: The original 1914 lens (optic) is now on display at the International Maritime Organization headquarters in London. |
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