The city of Sanibel reported that the Sanibel Lighthouse became a symbol of the community\u2019s resiliency after Hurricane Ian, surviving the storm with three of its four iron support columns intact.<\/p>\n
Originally constructed in 1884 as part of the Sanibel Island Light Station, the two \u201ckeepers\u2019 quarters\u201d were completely destroyed by the storm. The city\u2019s Planning Department has been working with consultant Archaeological Consultants to update the listing with the National Register.<\/p>\n
The Historical Preservation Committee discussed the nomination at its meeting of May 7 and the nomination has been submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office for review.<\/p>\n
The city shared the following facts about the Sanibel Lighthouse:<\/p>\n
\u2013 The lighthouse is an example of the late 19th century iron skeletal lighthouses. This type of lighthouse is actually named the \u201cSanibel class.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2013 There are three other \u201cSanibel class\u201d historic lighthouses remaining in Florida: at Cape San Blas, Anclote Key and Crooked River.<\/p>\n
\u2013 During World War II, the U.S. Coast Guard was stationed at the lighthouse to patrol the shoreline for enemy landings and submarine activity.<\/p>\n
\u2013 After Ian, the missing iron support column was replaced with a wooden pillar until its replacement \u2014 manufactured to match the original \u2014 could be installed. The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village now has the wooden \u201cpeg leg\u201d as part of its collection.<\/p>\n