St Augustine Lighthouse FL
Motorcyclist Map
Places Filter: Lighthouses
View In Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/FghfMrxkpBYQgtke6
Description: The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a historic landmark and museum located in St. Augustine, Florida, USA. The centerpiece of the site is the St. Augustine Lighthouse, a distinctive black-and-white striped tower that stands at a height of 165 feet (50 meters). It is one of the oldest surviving brick lighthouses in the United States, having been completed in 1874. The lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the St. Augustine Inlet. It used a fixed, first-order Fresnel lens, which emitted a powerful light visible up to 18 miles (29 kilometers) away. Originally, the light source was fueled by kerosene, but it was later converted to electricity. In addition to the lighthouse, the museum complex includes several historical structures and exhibits that highlight the rich maritime history of the region. The Keeper's House, which once housed the lighthouse keepers and their families, has been restored to depict life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore the living quarters, see period furnishings, and learn about the daily duties of a lighthouse keeper. The museum also features exhibits on shipwrecks, maritime archaeology, and the history of the St. Augustine area. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide insights into the region's maritime heritage. One of the unique attractions at the St. Augustine Lighthouse is the opportunity for visitors to climb the 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse. From the observation deck, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of St. Augustine, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding landscape. The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike. It offers educational programs, guided tours, and special events throughout the year. The museum's mission is to preserve and promote the maritime history and culture of St. Augustine and to serve as a beacon for future generations interested in maritime heritage.