As one of the most hazardous spots on the trans-Atlantic shipping route, Montauk Point was recognized as a prime location for the recently autonomous United States� first public works project: a lighthouse. As the nation grew, the importance of New York City as a port of call continued to increase, so in 1860, the 1796 Montauk Point Light was completely overhauled to include additional height and a modern keeper�s house.
