Account of the Skerryvore Lighthouse: With Notes on the Illumination of Lighthouses

A historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book details the construction and illumination of the Skerryvore Lighthouse, highlighting the complexities involved in erecting the structure on a treacherous rocky outcrop amidst severe Atlantic conditions. At the start of the volume, the author provides a prelude that underscores the challenges faced during the project, such as the urgency of building the lighthouse to ensure safety for mariners and the risks associated with the physical environment. The discussion includes acknowledgments of his predecessors and the context of the Lighthouse Board's establishment, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing maritime safety. Stevenson articulates the necessity of careful planning and the difficulties encountered during the initial surveys of the rock, setting the stage for a detailed exploration of both the engineering accomplishments and the technical innovations introduced in lighthouse illumination.