Saint Augustine Lighthouse

The Saint Augustine Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the Atlantic coast of Florida, United States.

History

• The tower's construction began in 1874 and was completed in 1887 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
• The lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding mariners through the treacherous waters of the Matanzas Inlet.

Architecture

The Saint Augustine Lighthouse is an iconic example of Victorian-era architecture, with a distinctive square tower topped by a rotating Fresnel lens.

• The tower stands at 50.3 meters (165 feet) tall, while the focal height reaches 69.5 meters (228 feet).
• The lighthouse's exterior is constructed from cast iron and granite, with a characteristic red-and-white striped pattern.

Light Characteristics

The Saint Augustine Lighthouse features a rotating Fresnel lens that emits a powerful beam of light, visible up to 17 nautical miles (31 kilometers) at sea.

• The light pattern consists of three distinct flashes per minute, serving as a warning to mariners of the dangers lurking beneath the surface.

Current Status

The lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since 1979.

• Visitors can still climb the tower and experience the thrill of standing at the top of this historic beacon.

Location and Accessibility

The Saint Augustine Lighthouse is located on Red Cox Drive 100 in St. Augustine, Florida.

• The site is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with ample parking available for visitors.

Heritage Status

The Saint Augustine Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) since 1979 and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark (NHL).

• It is also a member of the U.S. Lighthouse Society's prestigious "100 Most Iconic Lighthouses" list.

Notable Historical Events

The Saint Augustine Lighthouse played a significant role in several notable historical events, including:

• The Spanish-American War: During this conflict, the lighthouse served as a key military installation and observation post.
• The Great Fire of 1888: A devastating fire swept through St. Augustine, but the lighthouse remained standing, serving as a beacon for rescue efforts.
• Hurricane Andrew (1992): The lighthouse withstood Category 5 hurricane-force winds, earning it recognition as one of the most resilient lighthouses in U.S. history.

Visiting Information

The Saint Augustine Lighthouse is open to visitors year-round, offering guided tours and stunning views from its topmost deck.

• Visitors can also explore the adjacent museum, which features exhibits on the history of the lighthouse and its significance in American maritime heritage.

Heritage Designation

The Saint Augustine Lighthouse is a member of the U.S. Lighthouse Society's prestigious "100 Most Iconic Lighthouses" list, and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark (NHL) since 1979.

Automated Status

The lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since 1979.