Iconic Martha's Vineyard Lighthouse Being Moved

An iconic Martha's Vineyard's lighthouse has begun its gradual move from its rapidly eroding cliffside perch.

Powerful hydraulic jacks inched the Gay Head Lighthouse roughly five feet along steel rails just before noon Thursday.

The 400-ton brick-and-mortar lighthouse had been lifted off the ground about six feet and placed on a wood-and-steel frame for the move.

It's expected to arrive at its final destination about 135 feet away as soon as Saturday.

The 160-year-old beacon protects mariners from the treacherous shoals below. It's among the most endangered historic landmarks in the United States, The project is being paid for with about $3 million in donations and grants.

A beacon has existed on the cliffs since the second U.S. President, James Adams, had one built in 1799.