Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse has been a silent sentinel of Newport, Oregon, since its construction in 1871. As the oldest structure in Newport and the only wooden lighthouse remaining on the Oregon coast, it uniquely combines the light tower and keeper’s quarters under one roof—a rarity on the Pacific coastline. ​

Despite its strategic location, the lighthouse’s service was brief. In 1873, the more powerful Yaquina Head Lighthouse was commissioned just three miles north, rendering Yaquina Bay Lighthouse obsolete. By 1874, its light was extinguished after only three years of operation. The building then served various purposes, including housing for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and later the U.S. Coast Guard. However, it eventually fell into disrepair and faced potential demolition. Community efforts led by the Lincoln County Historical Society saved the structure, culminating in its listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and a full restoration in 1974. The lighthouse was re-lit in 1996 and now stands as a testament to coastal heritage, attracting thousands of visitors annually.

Beyond its architectural significance, the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is shrouded in legend. One enduring tale speaks of a young girl named Muriel who vanished within its walls, her disappearance marked only by a chilling scream and a pool of blood. This story, among others, has cemented the lighthouse’s reputation as a haunted locale, adding an air of mystery that continues to intrigue visitors. ​

In 2025, comprehensive exterior restoration to preserve its historical integrity began. This project includes repairing the roof framing, chimneys, brick foundation, lantern, siding, doors, and windows, along with a new roof and complete exterior paint. ​

The team at Allen Metals is contributing to this preservation effort by restoring the lantern room—a critical component of the lighthouse’s functionality and aesthetic. The process involves disassembly and refurbishment of the cast iron structure and bronze interior vents. We removed the structure from the house in Oregon and shipped it to Alabama, where we are performing the work. Once restored, the lantern room will be reassembled and reinstalled.​