Name and Location

The Sand Island Lighthouse is located on Dauphin Island, Alabama, USA. Its precise location is at 5WQX+3Q Dauphin Island, AL, USA (30.1877251° N, -88.0505924° W).

Construction and History

The Sand Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1848 during the Antebellum era.

Architecture and Materials

Designed by architect James Reid White, this lighthouse is a rare example of an octagonal tower with a square base. The structure is built from brick and stands at an impressive 60 feet (18 meters) tall.

Light and Navigation

The original light source was a fixed white light that shone through a series of eight panes of glass. Today, the lighthouse is automated, and its light characteristic is a Fl(3)W.15s pattern (three flashes every 15 seconds). The overall height of the lighthouse is 60 feet (18 meters), with a focal height of 40 feet (12 meters).

Accessibility and Visiting

Although the lighthouse has been decommissioned, it still stands as a beloved landmark on Dauphin Island. Visitors can access the site, but please note that the structure is not open to the public for interior visits.

Notable Views and Landscape

• From the top of the lighthouse, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, Dauphin Island, and the surrounding waters.
• The area is home to various marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and migratory birds.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Local folklore suggests that the lighthouse was once home to a keeper who would play music on his harmonica to guide ships through treacherous waters during storms.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse has been automated since 1988. Visitors can access the site but cannot enter the tower due to safety concerns.

Further Information

For further information, please refer to the National Park Service's website (www.nps.gov) or consult with local authorities.