The Story of Fire Island

In 1826, Fire Island gained its first lighthouse. It became clear after it was completed that it wasn't going to be enough to effectively guide ships in the night. On July 19 of 1850, a gale lashed the coastline, sending an Italian ship called the Elizabeth crashing into a sandbar. Many crew and passengers died, including the writer Margaret Fuller, her husband, and their two-year-old son. Legend states that he hanged himself right there in the lighthouse. Those who have spent time there have reported hearing footsteps race up the stairs, much like Benjamin Smith would do as he waited for the doctor's ship to appear.