13-06-2014, 12:22 PM
1
A day at St Marys island
Yesterday had a trip to St Marys island, as it was sunny if a bit breezy.St Marys island.
House Sparrow.
Small Skipper butterfly.
Dodgy Swift flight shot, hours of pointless entertainment trying to follow these well named birds trying for a photo.
Cormorant.
14-06-2014, 04:44 AM
10
Re: A day at St Marys island
Originally Posted by lovemyboys
->
That is a gorgeous spot.Is that still a functional lighthouse?
History
Some brief notes on St Mary's Island
The Island itself has undergone many changes over the years, from being used by the Monks at Tynemouth Priory to fishermen as a haven during rough seas. There has also been a public house on this site (during the 19th century). Which was demolished to make way for the current house. For a complete history of the Island contact the Local History society at North Shields Library.
There is now a causeway connecting it to the mainland (which is covered by the tide)
Please do no try to cross when covered by the tide as it's quite dangerous. It is mostly a sandstone rock which was connected to the mainland many years ago.
The lighthouse itself was finished in 1898 at the cost of £8,000 and stands 120ft high, you can climb the 137 steps if able ( video service available for the disabled). It is no longer in service ( It remained in use till 1984 when surpassed by modern navigation methods)but is used as a navigation marker by airline pilots landing at Newcastle Airport. The lighthouse is floodlit at night and can be seen for many miles.
St Mary's is also a SSS I (site of special scientific interest)and a VMR(voluntary marine reserve)
Please respect this if you visit.
St Mary's Island and Lighthouse
Opposite the Island is a point known as “CURRY’S POINT". Where in the autumn of 1739 Michael Curry could be seen hanging from a gibbet. He was executed at the Westgate Newcastle on 4th September 1739 for the murder of the landlord of "THE THREE HORSE SHOES" Hartley. As was the custom at the time, he was hung within sight of the crime. A plaque stands there today to mark the spot.
The red cottage was recently sold for £425,000, rumoured to have cost £20,000 in the 80,s. These days The Lighthouse/ visitor centre is used as a wedding venue among other things.
regards Nom.
|
|
