A beacon since 1860
Our Lighthouse History
The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse first lit its lamp on July 10, 1860 — one of the oldest surviving structures in South Florida. Towering 108 feet above the inlet, the red-brick tower has guided sailors, soldiers, and settlers through hurricanes, wars, and a century of growth.
During the Civil War, the light was darkened by Confederate sympathizers who buried its parts in the sand. It was re-lit in 1866 and has burned almost without interruption ever since — a sentinel of safety for a nation that has weathered its own storms.
Our Aerie draws its spirit from that same light: a beacon of fellowship, service, and country. We stand watch over our community just as the lighthouse stands watch over the inlet.
Beacon Timeline
1853
Congress appropriates funds to build a lighthouse at Jupiter Inlet.
1860
The lighthouse is lit for the first time on July 10.
1861
Confederate sympathizers dismantle and bury the lighting mechanism during the Civil War.
1866
The light is restored and re-lit after the war.
1939
The U.S. Coast Guard takes over operation of the lighthouse.
1973
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
1998
The Loxahatchee River Historical Society begins managing the site as a museum.
2019
Designated an Outstanding Natural Area by Congress.
Visit the Lighthouse & Museum
Climb 105 steps to the top of the tower, explore the history museum in the WWII barracks, and walk the lush grounds of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum.