Cape Cod is an island on the Atlantic coast of Massachusetts. During its peak fishing and whaling history, the waters became an ocean graveyard to 3,000 ships. In order to provide a beacon of safety, lighthouses were erected starting in 1857. Today, about fourteen remain, mostly as tourist attractions. This is Nauset Light in Eastham. Its classic, cast iron and brick structure painted in white, red and black was built in 1877.