20 May 2024
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Guernsey Stamps have released a set of 6 stamps to mark 300 Years since the construction of Casquets Lighthouse.
The new stamps have been designed by fine art painter Toby Dixon, and show Casquets Lighthouse through its various stages of life. Beginning with a depiction of the lighthouse in the 1830’s (65p), the stamps go on to show the lighthouse during its notable stages of development in 1854, the 1970s and 19080’s respectively. Philatelists can purchase a set of 6 stamps from Guernsey Stamps for £9.98, other items available in this issue include a presentation pack, first day cover and prestige booklet.
Above: The set of 6 stamps show Casquets Lighthouse through its 300 year history
A brief history of Casquets Lighthouse
The lighthouse was built in 1724 by Thomas Le Cocq under license from Trinity House, which is a charity dedicated to safeguarding shipping and seafarers since 1514. The lighthouse is located on the ‘Rocks called the Casketts’ off the island of Alderney.
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Trinity House wanted to distinguish the lighthouse from others on the opposite shores of England and France. As a result, 3 towers were built of Alderney stone and named St Peter (North West Tower), St Thomas (South West Tower) and Dungeon (Easternmost Tower).
Above: The stamps have been designed by fine art painter Toby Dixon
The lighthouse has been subject to a number of improvements over the years, including the replacement of the lights in 1818 to new revolving apparatus and the raising of each tower in 1854. In 1877, Trinity House decided to keep only the North West Tower active and the height of it was raised again, with a new, more powerful lamp being fitted. The lighthouse was converted to electric in 1952 and the fog signal upgraded. In 1962, Trinity House extended its helicopter operations to Les Casquets and later installed a helicopter pad on the top of St Thomas Tower.
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Above: The stamps are also available as a presentation pack
Today, the 3 lighthouse towers remain in use, although only the North West Tower (St Peter) still has a light. The lighthouse runs on renewable energy and a rainwater catchment and treatment system has been installed to process and produce drinking water. The lighthouse is now monitored and controlled from Trinity House’s Planning Centre in Harwich, Essex.