During the early 1800s Bass River was an important safe harbor for schooners and fishing ships in Nantucket Sound.

[4] In 1850, the federal government of the United States appropriated $4000 to build a lighthouse near the breakwater at the mouth of Bass River.

As was typical of early Cape Cod style lighthouses, the light tower was an integral part of the keepers house, centered atop the dwelling's roof.

[1][5] Because most of these structures leaked significantly, they were replaced with self-standing towers; the West Dennis Light is the only remaining lighthouse on Cape Cod built with this design.

The papers on the land were passed too late in June to begin any construction, so he decided to take in overnight guests to help pay the mortgage.