Egmont Key Light

The Egmont Key Light is a historic lighthouse located on Egmont Key, a small island in Tampa Bay, Florida, United States.

History

• The construction of the light began in 1848 and was completed by 1850. It was originally built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the bay.
• The Egmont Key Light is a brick structure with a distinctive octagonal shape. The tower stands at a height of approximately 60 feet (18 meters) above sea level, while its focal height reaches up to 80 feet (24 meters).
• The light itself is a fourth-order Fresnel lens, producing a characteristic red beam that can be seen from a distance.

Light Characteristics

• The Egmont Key Light operates on a manual rotation system, with the light being turned by hand using a key.
• The light's pattern is a steady red flash every 10 seconds, visible to vessels at a range of up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

Current Status

The Egmont Key Light is currently not an active navigational aid. However, it remains a popular tourist destination and is operated as a museum by the National Park Service.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via a ferry from nearby Fort De Soto Park.

Location and Accessibility

• Egmont Key is located approximately 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) east of St. Petersburg, Florida.
• The island can be reached by ferry from Fort De Soto Park, with regular departures throughout the day.
• Visitors must book their tickets in advance to ensure availability.

Heritage Status

The Egmont Key Light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a designated National Historic Landmark.

It has been recognized for its significant contribution to the maritime history of the United States.

Notable Historical Events

• The Egmont Key Light played an important role in the American Civil War, serving as a strategic location for Confederate forces during the Siege of Fort De Soto in 1862-1863.
• The lighthouse also served as a refuge for Union prisoners after the war.

External Links

For more information on visiting the Egmont Key Light or learning about its history, please refer to external resources.