Abisha Woodward
Abisha Woodward (1752-1809) was a contractor from New London, Connecticut that is best known for the construction of lighthouses. He completed the Bald Head Light, the still-standing New London Harbor Light, the Falkner Island Light and the wooden Lynde Point Light.
Work
Woodward's first work on lighthouses stems from the federal contract he won in 1793 to complete the Bald Head Light at Cape Fear, North Carolina.[1] The light was already partially constructed when Woodward began work and completed it.[1] In 1813, the light needed to be torn down because it was built too close to the shore.[1] In 1796, Woodward submitted a bid to build the Montauk Point Lighthouse, but was underbid by John McComb.[1] In 1799, Woodward returned to New London to replace the New London Harbor Light.[1] In 1801, Woodward completed the 89 feet (27 m) stone tower which continues to serve as an active aid.[1] In 1802, Woodward built the Falkner Island Light and in 1803 he built the wooden Lynde Point Light.[1]