The Crooked River Lighthouse is not my ideal type of lighthouse. It is not made of brick and mortar, but iron and resembles an oil derrick. Still, it is not an uncommon look for a costal lighthouse. There are more than a dozen that have a similar style in Florida alone.
FACTS
~ Built in 1895 to replace one destroyed by a hurricane on Dog Island in 1873.
~ Height: 103 feet
~ 138 steps to the top
~ Electricity came to the lighthouse in 1933
~ It became automated in 1952.
~ Listed on the National Historic Registry
~ The lens was built in 1894 by Henri LaPaute in Paris, France.
~ The lens was removed in 1976 and is now located in the U.S. Coast Guard 8th District Offices in New Orleans.
~ The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1995.
~ Restoration was completed in December 2007.
LOCAL INFO
Museum & Gift Shop Hours: Wednesday - Sunday : Noon to 5 PM
Climbing to the top of the Lighthouse tower open Wednesday through Sunday from 1 - 4 pm (weather permitting) at a cost of $5pp
Follow Crooked River Lighthouse fun, family friendly events: www.facebook.com/CrookedRiverLighthouse/
We didn't spend much time here since we were on our way to St. George Lighthouse as well as the annual dog festival in Apalachicola. It was an afterthought that made me wish I had planned better, but still grateful we had a moment to visit. We arrived before the museum and lighthouse were open. Truth be told, I hear the stairs to the top are narrow and steep. To add to that, I also hear the central column to the top is tight, so it is likely my family would've had much desire to climb it even if it had been open. But, my curious nature probably would not have been able to resist.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Lighthouses are often excellent places to take children of all ages because of their historic value and significance. Not to mention many are easy on the family pocketbook and provide lifelong memories and family photo opportunities. Sure, you can go to theme parks, zoos and other popular attractions. But for that quality time that allows for quiet and teachable moments, you really can't beat hiking and lighthouse hunting. Some of our best family memories are not the traditionally popular places, but mapping a trip up the coast to visit lighthouses. From sunrise to sunset, your spirit will be soaked in moments to remember.
Be sure to check the schedule and visit when the lighthouse and gift shop are open for exploration.
2018/16 read more