The town of Paulsboro, located near New Jersey’s border with Pennsylvania in the Philadelphia metro area, is one of those laid-back suburban towns that don’t get too many tourists. A town of around 6,000 people, it is mostly populated by commuters – but it has one unique claim to fame. It’s home to what might be the most unique lighthouse in New Jersey. The Tinicum Island Rear Range Lighthouse is located close to the Delaware River, but it doesn’t look anything like NJ’s most famous coastal lighthouses. Rather, it’s a striking black monolith with the purpose of keeping sailors safe in an unusual situation. The striking red light emitted from the black tower can be a little eerie, but this historic lighthouse has a fascinating history – and it’s well worth visiting Paulsboro to discover it.

Those who drive through Paulsboro have probably come across this massive black tower, looming over the town. It's a lighthouse - but not the type people are familiar with.
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That's clear from its ominous orange light - making the black tower look like something out of "The Lord of the Rings".
Ben Kranefield/Google Local
But this tower isn't the landmark of a dark wizard - it's a guidance tool, used to help sailors navigate the Delaware River. It's twinned with a front range lighthouse to illuminate the path around Little Tinicum Island.
Jodie Cals/Google Local

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The lighthouse was first activated in 1880, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.
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Regular tours are available thanks to the local Tinicum Rear Range Lighthouse Society, both scheduled and specially arranged. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse!
Ben Kranefeld/Google Local
From there, you'll get amazing views of the Philadelphia skyline, including the massive airport.
Samantha Coomer LeDonne/Google Local
The tower makes an incredibly striking view over Paulsboro as the sun sets, too. It's well worth making the trip into town to get close to this historic lighthouse.
Alan Rosenberger/Google Local

Have you visited the Tinicum Island Rear Range Light in Paulsboro? What did you think of this unique lighthouse in New Jersey? Let us know in the comments section! You can find out more about this landmark and more on the official Paulsboro website. Paulsboro is part of New Jersey’s Philly suburbs, which will soon be home to the first Federal Donuts in New Jersey. If you’re looking for a place to stay, book a room at the Hampton Inn Swedesboro Philadelphia.

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Tinicum Rear Range Lighthouse, 70 2nd St, Paulsboro, NJ 08066, USA