Boca Grande Lighthouse

The Boca Grande Lighthouse was built in 1890 and has played a crucial role in maritime navigation in the Gulf of Mexico.

History

• The lighthouse's construction was part of a series of aids to navigation established by the United States Coast Guard to ensure safe passage for ships.
• The Boca Grande Lighthouse is a tall, imposing structure that stands at a height of 65 feet (20 meters) above sea level.

The exterior of the lighthouse is constructed from coral limestone, which was quarried locally. The tower itself is painted in a distinctive red-and-white striped pattern, while the keeper's house features a more subdued color scheme.

Light Characteristics

• The Boca Grande Lighthouse emits a powerful beam that can be seen for up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) out to sea.
• The light's pattern is a fixed, rotating beam that rotates every 10 seconds to ensure maximum visibility to mariners.

The Boca Grande Lighthouse is currently operated as a museum, open to the public for guided tours and educational programs. While it is no longer an active aid to navigation, its historic significance and picturesque location make it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.

Location and Accessibility

• The Boca Grande Lighthouse is located on Gulf Boulevard in Boca Grande, Florida, a small island community situated at the southern tip of Gasparilla Island.
• Visitors can explore the keeper's house and tower, as well as learn about the history and significance of the lighthouse through interactive exhibits and guided tours.

Heritage Status

The Boca Grande Lighthouse has been designated as a historic landmark by the United States Coast Guard and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its designation recognizes the lighthouse's importance in maritime navigation and its enduring role in preserving the history of the Gulf of Mexico.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Boca Grande Lighthouse played an important role in the war effort as a communication relay station for the U.S. Navy.

The lighthouse's remote location made it an ideal spot for intercepting enemy transmissions and transmitting vital information to military commanders.