Anclote Key Lighthouse

The Anclote Key Lighthouse has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1889.

History

• The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners navigating the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
• Its strategic location on Anclote Key, a barrier island off the coast of Florida, made it an ideal spot to guide ships safely into port.

Architecture

The Anclote Key Lighthouse is a classic example of a 19th-century lighthouse design.

• The tower stands at a height of 34 meters (112 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 50 meters (164 feet).

The lighthouse was constructed using traditional materials such as cast iron and wood.

Its exterior is painted in a classic white-and-red color scheme, while its interior features a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The lighthouse's architecture has been well-preserved over the years, making it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.

Light Characteristics

• The Anclote Key Lighthouse emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen from up to 20 nautical miles away.
• The lighthouse's light pattern is a rotating flash, which helps to guide mariners safely into port.

Current Status

The Anclote Key Lighthouse is currently operated by the Anclote Key Preserve State Park, which manages the island and its surrounding waters.

While the lighthouse is no longer used as a primary navigational aid, it remains an active aid to navigation and continues to guide mariners safely into port.

Location and Accessibility

The Anclote Key Lighthouse is located on Anclote Key, a barrier island off the coast of Florida.

The island can only be accessed by boat, making it a unique and secluded destination for visitors.

The lighthouse itself is situated at an address of Howard Park Crossway in Tarpon Springs.

Heritage Status

The Anclote Key Lighthouse has been recognized as a historic landmark by the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

Its designation as a NRHP site reflects its importance as a navigational aid and its role in the history of maritime navigation on the Gulf Coast.

Notable Historical Events

• One notable historical event associated with the Anclote Key Lighthouse is its construction during the late 19th century.
• The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners navigating the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Anclote Key has also been an important location for marine life.

The island is home to a large number of shorebirds that nest and breed on the island each year.

The surrounding waters are also home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins.

Anclote Key Lighthouse

The Anclote Key Lighthouse remains an important landmark on the Gulf Coast, serving as a reminder of the region's rich maritime history and its importance in the lives of sailors and fishermen.