The United States has the most lighthouses in the world, and within the US, the state of Michigan is the best represented. This is accounted for by the fact that the state is home to the Great Lakes, that connect to the Atlantic Ocean. There are currently 115 lighthouses in Michigan alone, and they are actually considered tourist attractions, with visitors able to admire their unique architecture.

The Sandy Hook Light is the oldest operating lighthouse in the US and is located in Monmouth County. It was initially switched on in 1794, and its light has continued to burn ever since. It is easily recognized by its unusual octagonal shape and characteristic red roof.

Even today, lighthouses are still used as an aid to navigation, despite advances in maritime technology. During their heyday, there were over 1500 lighthouses in America, most of them built and maintained by the Coast Guard. Today, they are the responsibility of the National Park Service and are protected by the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act.

According to Lighthouse Directory, there are more than 18,600 lighthouses worldwide. Almost 800 of those are still standing in the US.

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