The Sanibel Island Light, which is also called the Point Ybel Light or Sanibel Lighthouse, is one of the first lighthouses to be constructed on the Gulf Coast, and it has been on Sanibel Island since 1884. The Sanibel Lighthouse, like much of the island, experienced serious damage due to Hurricane Ian in 2022. Both the keeper’s houses and other outbuildings were destroyed, but the lighthouse managed to stand strong through the storm! However, exciting updates are in the news.
The End of Repairs
For over a year, a temporary wooden leg has been used to keep the Sanibel Lighthouse standing. While this has kept the lighthouse supported thus far, it was recently replaced with a permanent leg. This new leg will help ensure the lighthouse is strong enough to withstand future hurricanes. Sanibel Lighthouse is also adding a cast-iron ladder. Thanks to these improvements and other repairs, the lighthouse will be even stronger and more secure.
In the past few days, scaffolding was added to the lighthouse. This scaffolding will allow workers to sandblast the exterior of the lighthouse so that an exterior coating can be added. The fact that the lighthouse has remained standing since Hurricane Ian is impressive, and it serves as a symbol of hope for many Sanibel residents.
The History of the Lighthouse
The Sanibel Lighthouse was first built after residents asked the government for a lighthouse in response to ships getting dangerously close to land. As cargo ship traffic increased through San Carlos Bay, the Sanibel Lighthouse was approved and built-in 1884. The lighthouse remained operational with a keeper living on site through 1949 when automation technology removed the need for a manual operator. In 1974, the Sanibel Lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places to ensure that it will remain for many more generations.
Contact Kingfisher Vacation Rentals to Learn More about Sanibel Island Properties
At Kingfisher Vacation Rentals we choose vacation rentals over hotels every time! We are actively open and assisting owners every day with their recovery process. We’re also ready to bring new properties into our award-winning program. If you are interested in discussing how our unmatched marketing approach and comprehensive owner services will benefit you, call today! For more information about Sanibel and Captiva, visit our website, email us at info@gokingfisher.com, stop by our Captiva office, or give us a call today at 239-472-2100!