Dry Tortugas Lighthouse

In an effort to assist mariners navigating the reefs and shoals throughout the Dry Tortugas, Fla., a 150-foot lighthouse was finished July 1, 1858 on Loggerhead Key, Fla.

The Dry Tortugas lighthouse, along with the Garden Key lighthouse at Fort Jefferson, were the only lights on the Gulf coast that stayed in full operation throughout the American Civil War.

The tower was damaged by a hurricane in October 1873 and plans were drawn up for a new tower. However, repairs to the tower were so successful that the plans for a new tower were shelved. Its appearance and striping is similar to the Hunting Island Light, though its construction is different. 

Beginning with its electrification in 1931, it was the most powerful lighthouse in America, with three million candela. The light lies nearly 70 miles west of Key West, Fla., and the westernmost tips of the Florida Keys.

Location:  Loggerhead Key
State:  Florida
Photographer:  PA1 Jeff Hall