This is archived information. It may contain outdated contact names, telephone numbers, Web links, or other information. For up-to-date information visit GSA.gov pages by topic or contact our Office of Public Affairs at press@gsa.gov. For a list of public affairs officers by beat, visit the GSA Newsroom.

GSA announces the sale of Hooper Island Lighthouse


Federal government seeking new owner for historic Chesapeake Bay lighthouse

Hooper Island Lighthouse

PHILADELPHIA — The U.S. General Services Administration announces the opening of the online auction sale of the Hooper Island Lighthouse. The federal government is searching for a new steward to purchase the lighthouse, located about four miles west of Middle Hooper Island in the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland. 

Hooper Island Light is a caisson (sparkplug) lighthouse built in 1902. The lighthouse stands in 18 feet of water with a focal plane height of 63 feet. The lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 2, 2002. 

The property is subject to:

  • The United States Coast Guard’s continued operation and maintenance as an Aid to Navigation on the lighthouse.
  • Historic preservation covenants of the lighthouse.
  • The execution of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the United States Navy. The lighthouse is located within a Navy controlled surface danger area. For safety purposes, the successful bidder will be required to enter into an MOA that governs when access is prohibited. 

The online auction began August 8, 2022. Those interested in bidding are required to register in advance and submit a $5,000.00 registration deposit. The starting opening bid is set at  $15,000.00. Inspection of the structure must be done from a safe distance. Tying off to, climbing, anchoring to or trespassing on the Property is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns.

Investors are encouraged to begin their buyer due diligence now. The deadline to register and place a bid is September 21, 2022.   

Investors can register to bid on this auction at www.RealEstateSales.gov.   

Questions should be directed to:
Tod J. Taylor, Realty Specialist, GSA
404.215.6751 (o)
404.215.8600 (f)
tod.taylor@gsa.gov

 ###

About GSA: GSA provides centralized procurement and shared services for the federal government, managing a nationwide real estate portfolio of nearly 370 million rentable square feet, overseeing approximately $75 billion in annual contracts, and delivering technology services that serve millions of people across dozens of federal agencies. GSA’s mission is to deliver the best customer experience and value in real estate, acquisition, and technology services to the government and the American people. 

For more information, visit GSA.gov and follow us at @US_GSAR3.