Lighthouses of the Sunshine State - Presented by Brendan Burke

The Lightner Museum is pleased to host Mr. Burke, from the St. Augustine Lighthouse, as he shares his knowledge of the over 50 lighthouses that have stood as silent guards along Florida’s 1,300 miles of coast. From shifting sandbars to reef-strewn shallows lighthouses have endured hurricanes, earthquakes, even military attack. Taking man shapes and forms, Florida’s lighthouses are descendants of one of the earliest known aid-to-navigation systems in north America.  From St. Augustine’s 16th century signal towers to an inland lighthouse in Lake George, Florida has a rich tradition of light stations. The Sunshine State’s lighthouse have been a source of curiosity, folklore, and refuge. This presentation follows the history of Florida’s lighthouses and includes select stories from our legacy of lighting the coast.

This event will be held in the Historic Alcazar Pool, which is handicap accessible. Guests may enter through the Cafe Alcazar Granada Street entrance, located in the back of the Lightner Museum. Doors open at 5:00 pm, with the lecture beginning at 5:30 pm. Reception and light refreshments to follow. The event is free. Registration is required and can be made online at LightnerMuseum.org.

This program is sponsored by the Florida Humanities Council with funds from the Florida Department State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Also supported by The Historic Inns of St. Augustine and St. Johns County Tourist Development Council.