On Sunday, April 10, 2011 the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge will offer a tour to Lighthouse Island where you can view two historic lighthouses. A slide presentation on the history of the lighthouses will begin at 9:30 am at the Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center. Following the presentation, participants will drive to the McClellanville boat landing and board the Coastal Expeditions Island Cat Ferry at 11:00 to travel to the Island. The ferry will leave Lighthouse Island at approximately 2:00 pm to return to the mainland.
Built in 1827, the conical lighthouse stands at 65 feet. Its light, powered by a whale oil wick lamp, was visible from a distance of 14 miles under the most favorable circumstances. In 1857, a 150-foot octagonal lighthouse was built. Installed on the 150-foot tower was a prismatic lens that was visible for approximately 19 miles and dramatically reduced the number of shipwrecks off the Cape. The 1857 light was taken out of service in 1947 when coastal navigation techniques made it obsolete. Both lights are a significant maritime landmark and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 1827 lighthouse is the oldest of its kind still standing in the United States.
Note: Lighthouse Island is located in a National Wilderness Area. Therefore, there are no facilities or dock on the island; participants will wade ashore and walk a dirt path to the lighthouses. Wear appropriate footwear for water and pluff mud! Bring insect repellent, water and snacks and dress for the weather.
The transportation fee is $40.00 per person. Boat space is limited to 40 passengers. For more information, contact the Center at 843.928.3368 between 9 am and 5 pm, Tuesday - Saturday.
Sewee Center Events
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