Welcome to the Biloxi Lighthouse, an enduring symbol of resilience and history on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This iconic structure, standing proudly since 1848, was one of the first cast-iron lighthouses in the South. It was authorized by the United States Congress in 1847, with construction completed the following year under the supervision of Henry Scoles. The lighthouse was built from metal plates cast by the Murray and Hazlehurst Vulcan Works in Baltimore, and its cylindrical cast-iron tower is lined with brick, reaching a height of 64 feet.
Notably, the Biloxi Lighthouse has been a bastion of strength, surviving numerous hurricanes, including the devastating Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which caused significant damage. Yet, after a 14-month restoration, it reopened in 2010, symbolizing the city’s resolve in the face of adversity.
The lighthouse also has the unique distinction of being maintained by female keepers for more years than any other lighthouse in the United States. Among them, Maria Younghans stands out, having tended the light for over 50 years, even during severe storms. Her dedication was such that she famously kept the light burning during a hurricane in 1893 despite her living quarters being flooded.
Over its long history, the Biloxi Lighthouse has witnessed pivotal moments in American history. During the Civil War, its light was extinguished by local militia to prevent its use by Union forces. In 1960, the beach near the lighthouse became a site of civil rights activism during a ‘wade-in’ protest against the segregation of beaches in Mississippi.
Today, the Biloxi Lighthouse continues to serve as a navigational aid and a cherished historical monument. It offers visitors a glimpse into the maritime history of the Gulf Coast, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories of its storied past and the remarkable people who kept its light shining through the ages.
