Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is a historic maritime lighthouse located on South Peninsula Drive in Ponce Inlet, Florida, United States.

History

• Construction of the lighthouse began in 1887 and was completed in 1890.
• The structure has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years to maintain its integrity as a working lighthouse.
• AFTER being automated in 1969, the lighthouse ceased operations as an active aid to navigation.

Architecture

The tower stands at a height of approximately 175 feet (53 meters) above sea level and has a focal height of about 200 feet (61 meters).

• The lighthouse's architectural style is characteristic of late 19th-century American lighthouses, with a distinctive square base, four-story keeper's quarters, and a prominent lantern room.
• The structure was built using local materials, including brick and stucco.

Light Characteristics

The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse features a rotating optic lens that projects a red light, visible up to 21 miles (34 kilometers) at sea.

• The lighthouse's light pattern is a fixed, steady beam.

Current Status

As of the current time, the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation and has been converted into a museum.

• Visitors can explore the keeper's quarters and learn about the history of the lighthouse through exhibits and interactive displays.

Location and Accessibility

The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is located on South Peninsula Drive in Ponce Inlet, Florida.

• The site is easily accessible by car or public transportation.
• The nearest airport is the Orlando International Airport (MCO), approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) away.

Heritage Status

The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark since 1972.

• It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places under criteria A and C, acknowledging its architectural significance and historical importance to maritime navigation.

Notable Historical Events

The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse played an important role in the early days of maritime navigation in Florida.

• The lighthouse was a key aid to navigation for ships traveling through the busy shipping lanes of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Its proximity to major ports and its strategic location made it an essential component of the U.S. Coast Guard's navigational network.

Contact Information

For more information about the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, please contact the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse Preservation Association at +1-386-761-1821 or visit their website at https://www.ponceinlet.org/.