The first lighthouse built atop this 22 foot bluff, was a 45 foot stone tower completed in 1833. However, in light of growing commerce and the number of shipwrecks, it proved inadequate and was replaced by the current 142 foot brick structure in 1867. Assateague, as a barrier island, is constantly changing and southward growth of the island in the intervening century and a half have left the light stranded 5 miles from Chincoteague Inlet. As an Eastern seaboard lighthouse it's unique red and white striping distinguish it as a day marker. In 1963 the original Fresnel Lens was replaced by a rotating beacon. The lighthouse is managed by the U.S. Coast Guard and is still in use today.