Heceta House: A History and Architectural Survey

At the first session of Congress in 1789, jurisdiction of navagational aids was placed under the Department of the Treasury. Lighthouse work was directed by Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton. However, in 1792, Hamilton placed the commissioner of the revenue in charge of lighthouses.

In the early days of lighthouse administration, high officials took great interest in matters of appointments and salaries of keepers. In fact, one note pertaining to the dismissal of a particular keeper was signed by President Jefferson.

The first system of administration proved inadequate and, in 1851, a Lighthouse Board was formed. It was composed of two officers of the of the Navy; two Engineer Corps; and two civilians with high scientific achievements. The Secretary of the Treasury was president of the board.

After establishment of the board, the nation was divided into lighthouse districts. The entire Pacific coast comprised the 12th. District. In 1867, the 12th. District was divided, and Oregon, Washington and the Alaska Territory became the 13th. District.

The Lighthouse Board remained under the Treasury Department until 1903, when it was transferred to the Department of Commerce. In 1910, the board was abolished altogether, and the Lighthouse Service was established.

The Lighthouse Service further reorganized the system of districts in 1910. Oregon and Washington became the 17th. District and Alaska the 16th.

The Department of Commerce retained jurisdiction over the Lighthouse Service until 1939, when the service was transferred to the U. S. Coast Guard.