The people of Carrigaholt have marked the end of an era this morning as the Kilcredaun Head lighthouse was switched off for the last time.
The historic structure has been the guiding light for passing traffic in the Shannon estuary since 1824 but due to ongoing advances in sattelite navigation technology the Commissioners of Irish Lighthouses say it’s no longer required.
The Kilcredaun lighthouse has been overseen by three generations of the Rowan family over the past 70 years and as light dawned on the West Clare headland this morning – its part time keeper Stephen Rowan was joined by neighbours to see the light go out one last time.
The lighthouse is expected to be sold in the year ahead and as Stephen prepares to move on, he told Clare FM of his hope that the historic landmark which was home to his father and grandfather before him will be preserved.
