Ship Island Lighthouses

Historic Photo of Ship Island Lighthouse

Quick Facts

Location:

Ship Island, Mississippi

Significance:

Landmark

Amenities

2 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Scenic View/Photo Spot

The first lighthouse was completed in 1853 and survived the fighting at Ship Island during the Civil War. Eventually, the harsh environment took its toll on the lighthouse and it was abandoned in 1885. A new lighthouse was constructed in 1886. For nearly a century this lighthouse signaled the safety of Mississippi Sound until 1957. After surviving numerous storms and strong hurricanes, the wooden tower was accidentally set on fire by campers and destroyed in 1972.

Area residents mourned the loss of the historic structure a proposal was initiated and approved to build a replica-styled exhibit. Construction of the new exhibit started in 1998 and was capped off when a Coast Guard helicopter placed the new cupola a top the tower in February 2000. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina’s intense winds and waves destroyed the exhibit just five years after its dedication.