Name and Location

The Sombrero Key Light is located in Marathon, Florida, USA, situated on an artificial island in the Gulf of Mexico. Its official name is Sombrero Key Light, with coordinates -81.1108405, 24.6278368 (latitude and longitude).

Construction and History

The construction of the lighthouse began in 1857 and was completed in 1858 during the 19th century. It has been guiding mariners since then.

Architecture and Materials

The Sombrero Key Light's architectural style is a blend of Greek Revival and Italianate styles, with a square tower and a lantern room topped by a dome. The structure is made of cast iron, with a brick-lined interior. The lighthouse stands at 88 feet (26.8 meters) tall, with a focal height of 85 feet (25.9 meters).

Light and Navigation

The light has a range of approximately 14 miles (22.4 kilometers), emitting a Fl(3)W.15s pattern.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse on a guided tour, which includes a short boat ride from Marathon. The lighthouse is not open for self-guided visits or climbing. To reach the Sombrero Key Light, follow signs to Sombrero Beach Park, where you can take a short walk to the entrance.

Notable Views and Landscape

From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, Sombrero Beach, and the surrounding waters.

Anecdotes and Folklore

• According to local folklore, the Sombrero Key Light has been involved in several notable shipwrecks and marine incidents throughout its history. One legend tells of a vessel that ran aground nearby during a storm, resulting in the loss of life. Another story claims that the lighthouse's keeper would often spot ghostly apparitions on the beach at night.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse is automated, with no manual operation required. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 (NRHP #73000638).

Further Information

For further reading, visit the Wikipedia page for Sombrero Key Light at [en:Sombrero Key Light](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sombrero_Key_Light). The United States Coast Guard manages the Sombrero Key Light as part of their Historic Lighthouse Program.