Information
Landmark: Southwest Community GardenCity: Southeast Washington
Country: USA Washington DC
Continent: North America
Southwest Community Garden, Southeast Washington, USA Washington DC, North America
The St. Simons Lighthouse Museum is a historic lighthouse located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, near the city of Brunswick.
Visual Characteristics
The lighthouse is a cylindrical brick tower, painted white. It stands approximately 104 feet (31.7 meters) tall. The lantern room at the top is enclosed by glass panes and topped with a copper dome. A keeper's house, constructed of brick, is situated adjacent to the tower.
Location & Access Logistics
The lighthouse is situated at 601 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island, GA 31522. It is approximately 8 miles (12.9 km) east of downtown Brunswick. Access is via Beachview Drive. Parking is available on-site. Public transport options directly to the lighthouse are limited; however, local taxi services and ride-sharing are available from Brunswick.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The current St. Simons Lighthouse was constructed in 1872, replacing an earlier structure destroyed during the Civil War. It was built by the U.S. Lighthouse Board. Its original purpose was to guide maritime traffic into St. Simons Sound and along the Georgia coast.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can climb the 104 steps to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views. The adjacent keeper's house operates as a museum, detailing the history of the lighthouse and the lives of its keepers. Photography of the exterior and interior is permitted.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shaded areas are present around the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in this area. Food vendors are not located directly at the lighthouse, but are available in the nearby village area.
Best Time to Visit
For optimal lighting conditions for photography, late afternoon is recommended. The best months for visiting are typically March through May and September through November, offering mild temperatures. No specific tide requirements affect access.
Facts & Legends
A notable historical detail is that the lighthouse was automated in 1950, ending the era of resident keepers. A local legend suggests that the ghost of a former keeper, Frederick Osbon, can sometimes be seen tending the light.
Nearby Landmarks
- Fort Frederica National Monument (2.5km Northwest)
- Christ Church Frederica (2.8km Northwest)
- St. Simons Village (1.2km West)
- Gascoigne Bluff (3.1km West)