The current St. Simons Island Light, built by the U.S. government, stands as a replacement for the original lighthouse. Constructed to the west of the original's location, this 104-foot (32 m) brick structure was completed in 1872. It was equipped with a third-order, biconvex Fresnel lens, adding to its historical and architectural significance.
The Coastal Georgia Historical Society dedicated three years to restoring the two-story Victorian lightkeepers' cottage at the base of the lighthouse. This restored building now serves as a museum. In 1984, the society leased the historic lighthouse structure. Visitors can tour the museum and climb the 129 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of St. Simons Sound and the surrounding area, for a fee.
The Coastal Georgia Historical Society operates the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, located in the 1872 keeper's house, and allows visitors to climb the 129 steps of the lighthouse tower. The Society's headquarters are in the adjacent A. W. Jones Heritage Center, which houses exhibits, the Society's archives, a research library, an event hall, a museum shop, and administrative offices. This provides a comprehensive experience for visitors interested in the history and heritage of the area.
History & Anthropology Science & Technology Historic house Industrial heritage Maritime
101 12th Street, Saint Simons
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The St. Simons Lighthouse Museum offers visitors a blend of history and scenic beauty on Saint Simons Island. The museum is housed in the former keeper's dwelling, providing insight into the life of 19th-century lighthouse keepers. Visitors appreciate the well-preserved exhibits that showcase the maritime history of the area.
A highlight of the experience is climbing the 129 steps to the top of the lighthouse, which rewards guests with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscape. Many visitors find this climb worthwhile, though it may be challenging for some.
The museum's exhibits are informative and well-curated, covering topics such as coastal Georgia's history, lighthouse technology, and local marine life. Some visitors note that while the museum is not extensive, it offers a good amount of information for its size.
The grounds surrounding the lighthouse are well-maintained and picturesque, making it a popular spot for photography. The museum staff are generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the visitor experience with their insights.
On the downside, a few visitors mention that the museum portion is relatively small and can be explored quickly. Some also feel that the admission price is a bit high for the size of the museum, especially for larger families.
Overall, the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum provides a good balance of educational value and historical atmosphere, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in maritime history or looking for a unique vantage point of the island.