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St. Simons Island Light

618 Beachview Dr, St Simons Island, GA 31522, USA

Name and Location

The St. Simons Island Light is located at 618 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island, Georgia, USA.

Construction and History

The St. Simons Island Light was built in 1816 during the Second Federal Period, when the United States government actively constructed lighthouses along its coastal territories. The light was initially intended to serve as a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Golden Isles, a chain of barrier islands that includes St. Simons Island.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is a classic example of a federal-style tower, with a square base and a tapering cylindrical shaft topped by a lantern room. The structure is constructed from stuccoed masonry, with a decorative cornice at the top. The light was originally equipped with a fixed white lamp, which was later replaced with a Fresnel lens in 1856.

Light and Navigation

The St. Simons Island Light has been an important aid to navigation for over two centuries. The light is visible for approximately 13 miles out to sea and serves as a key reference point for mariners entering the Brunswick River. In addition to its role as a navigational beacon, the lighthouse also served as a prominent landmark for coastal communities, including the city of Brunswick.

Accessibility and Visiting

The St. Simons Island Light is managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, which works to preserve the structure and ensure its continued role as a vital aid to navigation.

Notable Views and Landscape

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Anecdotes and Folklore

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Technical and Operational Details

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Further Information

Details

NameSt. Simons Island Light
City
CountryOther
Coordinates31.1341131, -81.3935817