Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - Exterior light post not working

I have a light post approx. 15 feet from the house. When I purchased the house the light did not work. After replacing the light bulbs the light worked but would not turn off. When the switch inside the house was turned on/off the light would get dimmer or brighter but never turn off.

One day during a lightning storm the light flickered and went out. now it will not turn on again. I have replaced bulbs and the light switch to no avail.

Any ideas?

Many post lights are on a GFCI somewhere. Have you looked for a GFCI? Do you know where the cable leaves the house?

Another possibility is a faulty photo sensor. Is there a photo sensor?

It is probably not on a GFCI. The house is at least 50 years old. The wires to the inside switch are the old fabric coated wires. I tried to find where the wires leave the house but couldn't. I may have to start at the light and work back toward the house.

if there is a break in the wire between the house and the post light fixture, is that a hazard. especially since there probably is not a GFCI

There are no photo sensors.

I suggest you abandon the old line, and bury a new UF-B cable, protected by a GFCI in the house, out to the post.

Probably a good idea. The post is wood and in need of repair anyway.

Thanks for the response John.