Sand Island Lighthouse: A Gulf Coast Sentinel

The Sand Island Lighthouse, located approximately 3 miles offshore from Mobile Bay's entrance, has a storied past marked by construction, destruction, and constant battle against the elements. The first lighthouse, built in 1838 by Winslow Lewis, was deemed inadequate, leading to the construction of a taller, more robust tower in 1859. This second lighthouse was equipped with a first-order Fresnel lens, but its life was cut short by the Civil War when Confederate soldiers destroyed it to prevent Union forces from using it as an observation post. The current lighthouse, completed in 1873, stands as a testament to resilience. Its design is similar to the Currituck Lighthouse and features a tapered cylindrical tower with a balcony and lantern. Erosion has been a persistent threat, diminishing the island from its original 400 acres to a small rock pile. Despite these challenges, the Sand Island Lighthouse remains a beloved landmark, attracting lighthouse enthusiasts and history buffs. While the tower is currently closed to the public, its exterior can be viewed from boat tours departing from Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan. The lighthouse is a part of the Fort Morgan historic site and is owned by the Town of Dauphin Island. Restoration efforts have been ongoing to stabilize the island and preserve the lighthouse for future generations.