The Morris Island Lighthouse
The historic Morris Island Lighthouse is located at the entrance to Charleston Harbor on Morris Island in Folly Beach, SC. Due to its distinctive architecture and dramatic location, it’s one of the most iconic and recognizable lighthouses in the United States.
The lighthouse was first constructed in 1767 to help ships navigate the treacherous Charleston harbor. Originally designed as a wooden tower, it was susceptible to natural elements and decay. Over time, construction and fortification efforts began using brick and more powerful lights that could be seen as far as 20 miles out to sea. Today, the tower stands 161 feet (49 meters) tall, making it one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States. Its unique red and white spiral stripe pattern makes it highly visible and easy to recognize from a distance.
The lighthouse is on historical ground that endured many battles during the Civil War. Morris Island was a key part of the Union’s strategy to bombard and capture Charleston. Morris Island is most notably known in the Civil War as the site of the famous assault on Fort Wagner by the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, an African American regiment, which is depicted in the movie “Glory.”
Erosion Issues: One of the biggest challenges the Morris Island Lighthouse has faced is coastal erosion. Over the years, shifting sandbars and rising sea levels have caused the island to erode, and the lighthouse now stands about 1,500 feet (450 meters) from the shore in the Atlantic. Various attempts were made to relocate the lighthouse, but ultimately, the cost and complexity of such a move were prohibitive.
Restoration Efforts: In recent decades, numerous efforts have been made to preserve the lighthouse and its surroundings. In 1999, the South Carolina legislature authorized the acquisition of Morris Island for preservation, and the lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
Symbolic Importance: The Morris Island Lighthouse has become an enduring symbol of the Charleston area and its maritime heritage. It also symbolizes the challenges that lighthouses face in an era of modern navigation and environmental change. Although the lighthouse is no longer operational today, it remains a beloved and historical symbol of Charleston’s rich maritime history.
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Peaceful & Beautiful
This was my families first time at the ocean and I will never forget the look of joy on my youngest daughter’s face the moment the waves first came up on her feet. The beach was not over crowded, was clean, and was great for relaxing, swimming, and collecting seashells. There is a long pier for fishing off of and it is a beautiful sight at night. The town atmosphere was a nice mix between relaxing and having a good time and can work for the over 21 crowd as well as for families with small kids. There are plenty of great food stops and cute shops.
Fantastic & Peaceful
This beach is very relaxing and a great place to chill out. We saw several dolphins and enjoyed walking on the fishing pier. I would consider staying on the beach here next time we are in Charleston instead of downtown.
Cute, Calm & Peaceful
First time visitor to Folly Beach–loved it! Quiet and peaceful with many trees left on island.
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