How did early lightships display their warning lights?

Early lightships, which were first introduced in the 18th century to mark hazards where lighthouse construction was not feasible, utilized a simple method for displaying their warning signals. These early vessels were typically converted merchant or fishing boats that displayed their lights by suspending lanterns from crossarms located at the masthead.1

It was not until 1820 that vessels were specifically designed and built to serve as lightships. Over time, these vessels evolved from these basic configurations into more sophisticated, often automated, platforms that utilized diesel generators to power their beacons and fog signals.1