Buxton, N.C. — The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse stood solid against wind, rain and hurricanes for more than one-and-a-quarter centuries before being relocated to keep it from falling into the ocean.

Friday marks a decade since the light was turned on at its new location – 2,900 feet inland.

Dale McConnell and his family have been fishing in the shadow of the light house for more than 30 years. He was glad when a decision was made to move the historic lighthouse further inland.

“I thought it needed to be made because it was getting awful close to the ocean,” McConnell said.

It took three weeks and $11 million to relocate the 6,250-ton structure.

At 208 feet, it is the tallest brick lighthouse on the American coast.

During the summer tourist season, the lighthouse is open for visitors to climb to the top. Other times of the year, people can walk the grounds and learn about the light at the visitor center.