Location
The German Lighthouse is location at Cape Saint George on the southern tip of New Ireland. Borders Saint Georges Channel (St. Georges Channel). Also known as the "Old German Lighthouse".
Between 1884–1914 part of Deutsch Neu Guinea (German New Guinea) until September 1914. Prewar and during the Pacific War part of the Territory of New Guinea. Today located in Konoagil Rural LLG, New Ireland Province in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
Construction
Built by the Germans during the Deutsch Neu Guinea (German New Guinea) colonial era sometime between 1884 to 1914 to aid ships approaching Saint Georges Channel. The lighthouse was square concrete pad with four pads for a steel structure supporting a light to aid ships navigating approaching the area.
During September 1914, turned over to the Australian administration. It is unknown if the lighthouse was maintained and continued to be used, but the structure remained intact.
Wartime History
During 1942, captured by the Japanese. It is unknown if the Japanese used the lighthouse during their occupation of New Ireland as a navigation aid. By October 1944, the lighthouse structure remained intact.
During the Pacific War, this lighthouse was targeted by Allied aircraft and drones.
On December 23, 1943 six PV-1 Venturas from the RNZAF
attack the radar station and lighthouse.
During October 1944 targeted twice by
Special Task Air Group One (STAG-1) using TDR-1 Assault Drones. On October 18, 1944 targeted by three drones, No. 1 drone hit between the tower and radar installations No. 2 hit 30' from the base of the target and exploded but did not destroy the lighthouse. No. 3 drone was lost due to a material failure. On October 26, 1944 targeted by one drones that hit and the upper structure was destroyed by a direct hit.
Wreckage
All that remains today are the four concrete bases, and center slab. A new light was built post war atop the ridge.
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Last Updated
March 20, 2022
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