The History
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States, founded in 1565. The current lighthouse was built in 1874 to replace an older tower that was being claimed by shoreline erosion. The 165-foot tower with its distinctive black and white barber-pole stripes became a vital navigation aid for ships along the Florida coast.
The lighthouse has been in continuous operation since its first lighting, making it one of the oldest working lighthouses in the country. The keeper's house next to the tower has been home to dozens of lighthouse keepers and their families over 150 years.
The Tragedy
During construction in 1873, workers used a rail cart system to haul supplies from the waterfront to the construction site. The daughters of the construction superintendent, Hezekiah Pity - two young girls and a friend - were playing on the supply cart when it broke free and rolled into the sea. All three girls drowned.
Workers reported hearing children's laughter coming from the construction site the very next day, and the sounds have never stopped. The superintendent was devastated and reportedly never recovered from the loss.
The Hauntings
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is consistently ranked among the most haunted locations in Florida. Paranormal activity has been reported throughout the tower, keeper's house, and grounds:
The Tower Stairs
Children's laughter echoes up and down the 219 steps. Visitors feel tugging on their clothing as they climb, as if invisible children are playing.
The Keeper's House
The ghost of a woman, believed to be a former keeper's wife, is seen staring out the upstairs window. Objects move, doors open and close on their own.
The Basement
A tall shadow figure nicknamed "The Man" has been photographed in the basement. He appears to watch visitors before vanishing into darkness.
The Grounds
Footsteps on the catwalk at the top of the tower when no one is there. The light has been known to activate on its own.
Ghost Hunters & TV
Ghost Hunters (TAPS)
Featured on SyFy's Ghost Hunters, where investigators captured compelling evidence including a shadowy figure on the lighthouse catwalk.
Ghost Adventures
Zak Bagans and team investigated the lighthouse and keeper's house, documenting unexplained phenomena throughout the property.
America's Most Haunted
Consistently ranked among the top 10 most haunted lighthouses in America by paranormal researchers and publications.
What's There Now
Visit St. Augustine Lighthouse
Address: 81 Lighthouse Ave, St. Augustine, FL
Status: Active lighthouse and maritime museum, open to visitors year-round
Highlights: Climb all 219 steps to the top for panoramic views. The keeper's house is a museum with exhibits on lighthouse history and maritime archaeology. Dark of the Moon paranormal tours offered at night.
Tip: Part of St. Augustine's extensive ghost tour scene - the "Ancient City" is one of the most haunted cities in America.
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