The primitive form of the lighthouse was a blazing bonfire setup in a conspicuous position[1]. The earliest lighthouses used wood fires, and later, tallow candles[1]. These were often maintained by public and private interests[1]. Some consumed as many as 400 tons of coal per annum[1].
The shortcomings of the exposed fire were eventually realized; the side of the fire facing the sea would be black when the wind blew off the water[1]. Also, it was precisely when the wind was making a lee shore below the beacon that the more brilliant light was required[1].
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