Bluff Lighthouse, Signal Station and keepers' quarters

Pre 1930 - as can be seen from the lack of the additional concrete with which the lighthouse was 'restored' by that date. This is one of the best photographs taken of the lighthouse and its environs between 1900 and 1930. (Note that the shape of the Bluff changes from photo to photo over several decades.)

The concrete sheath was added due to concerns that the foundations of the old lighthouse were shaky: an earth tremor had unsettled the foundations and in a strong wind the tower swayed considerably, throwing the lens which floated on the mercury bath out of kilter.

Lighthouse engineer Cooper's scheme encased the original lighthouse in reinforced concrete, which may have assisted its stability but did nothing for the aesthetic appearance of the landmark.

Bluff Lighthouse with its concrete casing, taken ca 1935