The Lighthouse Tower, built in 1895 and restored in 2007, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The iron skeleton structure is topped with a circular parapet which provides great viewing for those adventurous enough to climb its 128 steps.
This historic 103-foot lighthouse is the tallest on the Forgotten Coast!
Admission to the Museum and Park Grounds are Free, and hours are 11:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. Wednesday thru Sunday (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) as well as open additional hours for special events like Country Markets, Full Moon events and more (see event for specific hours and details). The Lighthouse Tower is open for climbs during our daytime hours, weather permitting, with a cost of $6.00 for adults (age 13+) and $3.00 for youth (5-12 yrs). All climbers must be 44 inches tall. Discount available for veterans and first responders.
The highlight of the Keeper's House Museum is the lighthouse's original Fourth Order Fresnel lens fabricated in 1894 in Paris, France. This unique lens is a rare, bi-valve open face design featuring a 90 degree group flash and is made of brass and glass prism rings. Other exhibits include a historical setting of the early 1900’s, examples of lighthouse beacons through the years, and the methods of constructing a skeletal tower lighthouse. Everyday life objects are seen in the Keeper’s room, including the Lighthouse's original clock, a barometer, an antique glass fire grenade, pages from the Lighthouse Keeper’s watch book, currency and much more.
The CRLH Gift Shop is full of wonderful nautical-themed gifts including art, jewelry, home decor, apparel, toys, and souvenirs for both children and adults.
Surrounding the lighthouse is Crooked River Lighthouse Park, a publicly owned historic and natural resource conservation site with outdoor recreation area. It is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Programs, News, Events, and More . . .
Country Markets with Amazing Vendors, Nighttime Music & Food Events, and Special Exhibits
IN THE MUSEUM
COUNTRY MARKETS
TWILIGHT AT THE TOWER EVENTS
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Corn Moon
LEARN MORE
All Three Carrabelle Museums Join Together for Museum Day
Carrabelle’s three museums will open their doors free of charge on Saturday, September 20 as part of the annual Museum Day celebration. In honor of this day, Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, Carrabelle History Museum, and Crooked River Lighthouse Museum invite you to Carrabelle FL for special activities and exhibits. Camp Gordon Johnston Museum will be open from 11 am – 5 pm. Carrabelle History Museum will be open from 10 am – 5 pm. Crooked River Lighthouse will be open from 9 am – 5 pm. Guests can also enjoy the Country Farmer’s Market from 9 am-1 pm at Crooked River Lighthouse Park with local crafts, baked goods and area produce.
Each year, Museum Day goes beyond getting visitors through museum doors; it shines a spotlight on incredible culture and history exhibits. This year's theme, "Signals & Stories: Communication Across Time" will explore flashing beacons, radio calls, whispered tales and the signals that shaped our community and beyond.
PAVE THE PATHWAYS . . .WITH A CUSTOM ENGRAVED BRICK!
Support our ongoing efforts to maintain the Crooked River Lighthouse Park by purchasing a custom engraved brick paver to be placed in front of the lighthouse tower door. Honor a loved on with a permanent tribute or highlight your business, give congratulations or simply share a favorite saying.
Photo courtesy of David Zapatka of the United States Lighthouse Society and his USA Stars & Lights project to document as many lighthouses at night as possible.
TODAY YOU CAN COME SEE BOTH!
At dusk on December 8, 2007, over 240 people watched as the newly refurbished Crooked River Lighthouse was re-lit with an acrylic replica of the tower’s original Fresnel lens and the lighthouse began serving as an aid to navigation once again. The lighthouse was relit with its original light pattern. Our original historic Fresnel lens is on display inside the Keeper's House Museum at the Crooked River Lighthouse.
History of the Restoration of Crooked River Lighthouse:
- In 1995, the Crooked River Lighthouse was decommissioned by the US Coast Guard and in 1999 there were plans to surplus the lighthouse and auction it off to the highest bidder! In response a dedicated group of local citizens formed the Carrabelle Lighthouse Association (CLA) with the goal of preserving, restoring, and opening the lighthouse to the public.
- In August 2001, the CLA, in conjunction with the City of Carrabelle, was successful in having the Lighthouse safely deeded to the City. The CLA then successfully raised money through fundraisers and grants to beautifully restore this historic treasure of Florida's "Forgotten Coast".
- In 2007, an acrylic replica of the original glass Fresnel lens was installed and on December 8 in 2007, the Carrabelle Lighthouse Association successfully re-lit with the Crooked River Lighthouse with its original light pattern.
VISIT OUR GIFT SHOP
When you come to see the Lighthouse and Keepers House Museum, bee sure to stop into our quaint Shop to buy a fun collectible for yourself or as a gift.
