[1] The first lighthouse was built in 1858 by English convicts using pre-made cast iron sheeting rising it at the centre of an octagonal stone keeper's cottage;[2] in 1889 two keeper's cottages were built.

This lighthouse was replaced in 1901 by a cylindrical granite tower built on the rear still active and in good condition.

A major refurbishment taking 21 weeks was undertaken in early 2020, under a contract from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).

He was the lighthouse keeper from August 1860 until 23 March 1864 when he had a mental breakdown and is believed to have jumped into the sea.

[citation needed] Robert Wilkinson Howe (1862 – 1943) became the keeper in 1906 having previously been stationed at Cape Leeuwin.