It was irreparably damaged by the hurricane of 1938 and was replaced the following year by an automated light on a steel tower.

Complaints about the adequacy of this grew as shipping increased, and in 1872 built a small pier at the site and set a portable beacon on it, maintained by the keepers of the Sabin Point Light.

This too was deemed inadequate, and starting in 1875 the pier was enlarged, and a unique frame house was perched upon it, with the lantern projecting from the center of the roof.

Difficulties in construction due to bad weather delayed lighting of the new beacon until 1876.

Nonetheless, the keeper, Andrew Zuius, was able to take refuge upstairs and even kept the light burning through the storm.