National

Inagua Lighthouse Remains A Beacon, Despite Challenges

INAGUA – One of the oldest light houses in the country is still in operation despite a number of physical and manpower issues.

Published

2 weeks ago

April 14, 2024

Joshua Williams

INAGUA – One of the oldest light houses in the country is still in operation despite a number of physical and manpower issues. Our Joshua Williams was in Inagua a few weeks ago spending time with the Royal Bahamas Defence Force but had time to take a quick visit to the lighthouse. He has this report.

Although my main objective was to follow the Royal Bahamas Defence Force as they carry out their mission to protecting our borders in the Southern Bahamas, I also took some time out to visit the light house in Matthew town, Inagua.

Built in 1870 on the islamd of Great Inagua, the lighthouse has served as a beacon guiding ships into harbor.

The lighthouse stands at 113 feet and offers visibility up to 17 miles at sea.

Kevin Pickering is the lighthouse keeper.

A challenging climb up the over 100 steps ends in a beautiful, panoramic view of the town and surrounding waters.

The lighthouse, which operated on the kerosine wind up system for years, is now solar powered with batteries, while the use of modern technology is good, Pickering shares that there have been some challenges.

There’s also an issue of missing steps which is being addressed.

Despite all of it, the lighthouse remains a popular spot for locals and tourists.