Hello friends,

St. Simons Island, with its tranquil beaches and rich history, invites visitors to indulge in the charm of coastal living. Our recent trip to this Georgia gem led us to the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse, where we discovered not only maritime heritage but also a delightful surprise nearby—a playground that added an extra layer of enjoyment to our adventure.

A Glimpse of History.

Approaching the St. Simons Lighthouse, we were greeted by its striking white facade, a beacon that has guided sailors since 1872. Standing proudly against the backdrop of the blue sky, it symbolizes the island's maritime legacy and beckons visitors to explore its storied past.

The history of St. Simons lighthouse.

A surveyor named James Gould, originally from Massachusetts, was contracted by the Federal government to construct the first lighthouse. Gould, who had relocated to coastal Georgia in the 1790s to work as a timber surveyor for shipbuilding, completed the construction of the lighthouse. Following its completion, Gould was appointed as the first keeper and served from 1811 to 1837.

During the Civil War, the Confederacy ordered the disabling of Southern lighthouses to impede the Union Navy. On September 29, 1861, the local Glynn Guards infantry company destroyed the St. Simons Lighthouse. However, when the Union Navy took control of the island in March 1862, they failed to locate the Fresnel lens. The current lighthouse, which stands today, was finished in 1872.

The lighthouse was primarily built using tabby, a mixture of oyster shell, lime, sand, and water. This material was coated with a lime-based stucco for protection and then whitewashed. Initially, the light was produced using oil lamps suspended by chains. In 1857, a revolutionary new lens invented by French scientist Augustin-Jean Fresnel was installed, which utilized prisms to enhance the beam's range.

In the late 19th century, petroleum-based kerosene became the standard fuel for lighthouse lamps in America. Due to the fire hazard posed by this fuel, the U.S. Lighthouse Board constructed well-ventilated, fireproof oil houses at many light stations. The brick oil house, built around 1890, required the light keeper to conduct daily inspections for fuel leaks from storage cans.

Gould's original lighthouse contract included the construction of a dwelling house, separate kitchen, oil house, and well.

Exploring the Grounds.

The Keeper's Dwelling, with its Victorian architecture, stood as a testament to the island's history, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who tended to the beacon. Nearby, well-manicured gardens provided a tranquil escape, with colorful blooms and winding pathways inviting leisurely strolls.

Embracing Island Life.

Our day by the St. Simons Lighthouse was a blend of history, natural beauty, and family-friendly fun. Every moment was filled with the warmth and charm that define St. Simons Island. After indulging in freshly caught seafood at a nearby eatery and browsing the quaint shops lining the streets, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the memories made in this coastal paradise.

Conclusion.

As we bid adieu to St. Simons Island, the memories of our day by the lighthouse lingered in our hearts. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected discoveries can bring the greatest joy. Whether admiring historic landmarks, exploring playgrounds, or simply soaking in the island's natural beauty, St. Simons offers a timeless escape for visitors of all ages.

I hope you enjoyed the photos.

All the photos in my posts are taken by me, copyright (c) @artmom.

Thank you for visiting!