OCRACOKE ISLAND, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina's oldest continuously operating lighthouse is getting an interior makeover.
The Virginian-Pilot of Norfolk, Va., reported that rehabilitation began recently on the Ocracoke Lighthouse's interior and should be finished by the end of January. The work includes replacing cast iron railings on the balcony, replacing rotting window frames and repainting.
The 65-foot lighthouse was built in 1823 and is the shortest in North Carolina. The Coast Guard last worked on the lighthouse 27 years ago, but Doug Stover of the National Park Service says it's basically in good condition.
The lighthouse's lens was unplugged in November and will be turned on again when the project is completed. The beacon is visible for 14 miles.
