FOCUS: National Lighthouse Day is Aug. 4 on Sullivan’s Island

Staff reports  |  You can celebrate National Lighthouse Day on the grounds of the U,S, Coast Guard Historic District from noon to 4 p.m. on Aug. 4.

“We hope that people from the local communities and those from afar will come out and explore the grounds of the U.S. Coast Guard Historic District and learn about Charleston Light,” said Chief of Interpretation Paula Ogden-Muse.

Visitors may view exhibits in the historic life-saving station boathouse, according to a press release from the National Park Service.  Activities for children include boat building and a special junior ranger activity to earn a badge. Additional exhibits will focus on water safety and lighthouse preservation. Partner organizations that will be in attendance include: U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Sullivan’s Island Fire and Rescue, and the Morris Island Lighthouse Save the Light organization.

On. Aug. 7, 1789, Congress passed an act to establish and support of lighthouses, beacons, buoys and public piers. In honor of the 200th Anniversary of the establishment of the first federal lighthouse, Congress designated Aug. 7, 1989, as National Lighthouse Day. This recognition has encouraged communities and citizen groups to dedicate themselves to the preservation of these historic structures. As part of the anniversary, lighthouses, where feasible, were open to the public.

The Coast Guard’s Historic District represents the evolution of events important in United States maritime history from 1895 to 1962, the release said. Commissioned on June 15, 1962, as the last major lighthouse to be built in the United States, Charleston Light replaced the original Charleston harbor light (also known as the Morris Island Lighthouse) which was built in 1876. The unique triangular shape, interior elevator and aluminum siding distinguish it from more traditional lighthouses.

The free special public event with family-friendly activities will take place at 1815 I’On Avenue on Sullivan’s Island.

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