Haunted History and Ghostly Encounters
Perched on Anastasia Island, the St. Augustine Lighthouse stands as a beacon of maritime history and paranormal intrigue. Constructed between 1871 and 1874, this 165-foot tower has witnessed centuries of sailors, keepers, and tragic events, embedding it with tales that have captivated visitors and ghost hunters alike. Recognized as one of the most haunted sites in the United States, the lighthouse offers a unique blend of historical significance and eerie allure.
Haunted History
- The Pittee Sisters: In 1873, during the lighthouse’s construction, tragedy struck when three young girls – Eliza and Mary Pittee, daughters of the construction superintendent Hezekiah Pittee, and an unnamed African American girl – drowned after a supply cart they were playing in broke loose and plunged into the water. Only the youngest Pittee daughter, Carrie, survived. Since then, visitors and staff have reported hearing children’s laughter, footsteps, and even sightings of young girls in period clothing around the lighthouse and keeper’s house.
- The Keeper’s Demise: Joseph Andreu, a lighthouse keeper in the 1850s, met a tragic end when he fell from the tower while painting it. Many believe his spirit lingers, with reports of cigar smoke wafting through the air and sightings of a tall figure in blue roaming the premises.
- The Keeper’s Demise: Joseph Andreu, a lighthouse keeper in the 1850s, met a tragic end when he fell from the tower while painting it. Many believe his spirit lingers, with reports of cigar smoke wafting through the air and sightings of a tall figure in blue roaming the premises.
Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour
For those seeking a firsthand experience of the lighthouse’s haunted reputation, the “Dark of the Moon” ghost tour offers an after-hours exploration of the tower and keeper’s house. Guides share chilling tales of the lighthouse’s past, and guests are encouraged to bring cameras and EMF detectors to capture any paranormal activity. Tours are available year-round, with schedules varying seasonally.
Visitor Information
- Address: 100 Red Cox Road, St. Augustine, FL 32080
- Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; extended hours for special tours.
- Admission: General admission is $14.95 for adults, with discounts for seniors, children, and military personnel.
- Contact: (904) 829-0745
- Website: https://www.staugustinelighthouse.org
Vicinity of the Lighthouse
Nearby Attractions
- Castillo de San Marcos: Explore the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., offering insights into colonial military history.
- Colonial Quarter: Step back in time and experience life in 16th-century St. Augustine through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
- Flagler College: Tour the historic campus, originally the Ponce de Leon Hotel, showcasing stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture.
Why Visit?
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is more than a historical landmark; it’s a portal to the past, echoing with tales of dedication, tragedy, and the unexplained. Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or a curious traveler, the lighthouse offers an unforgettable experience that blends education with a touch of the supernatural.
