Jupiter Inlet Light

The Jupiter Inlet Light is a historic lighthouse located on the north side of the Jupiter Inlet in Jupiter, Florida.

History

• Construction on the lighthouse began in 1853, but was interrupted by the Third Seminole War from 1856 to 1858. The site for the lighthouse was chosen due to its strategic location at the entrance to Jupiter Inlet.
• The lighthouse was designed by Lieutenant George G. Meade of the Bureau of Topographical Engineers, with modifications made by Lieutenant William Raynolds.
• The structure was completed in 1860 under the supervision of Captain Edward A. Yorke at a cost exceeding $60,000.

Architecture

The Jupiter Inlet Light stands on a natural parabolic sand dune and is constructed from brick with double masonry walls.

• The outer wall is conical, tapering from eight bricks thick at ground level to three bricks thick at the base of the lantern.
• The inner wall is cylindrical and two bricks thick throughout.

Light Characteristics

The Jupiter Inlet Light can be seen from 24 nautical miles (44 kilometers; 28 miles) at sea, making it an important aid to navigation for mariners.

• The light has a distinctive pattern and is visible in all directions from its location on the north side of the inlet.

Current Status

The lighthouse was painted red in 1910 to cover discoloration caused by humidity.

However, Hurricane Jeanne in 2004 sandblasted the paint from the upper portion of the tower, requiring a repainting using a potassium silicate mineral coating.

The lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated.

Location and Accessibility

The Jupiter Inlet Light is located on Captain Armours Way in Jupiter, Florida.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via this road, which is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Heritage Status

The Jupiter Inlet Light was listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1973 and is considered a significant cultural and historical landmark in Florida.

Notable Historical Events

• The Third Seminole War had a significant impact on the construction of the lighthouse, as it interrupted work from 1856 to 1858.
• The war also highlighted the importance of the Jupiter Inlet as a strategic location for navigation and trade.