Garden Key (Tortugas Harbor)

Florida Keys

Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas

Constructed in 1886. First Lighted November 1, 1886.

At a Glance

Region

Florida Keys

Type

Historic Lighthouse

Latitude

24.62822

Longitude

-82.872292

Garden Key Lighthouse

Photo: Stan Beckstrom

Active: Yes

Characteristics: Red and white flashing light (originally); Current: flashing white every 6 seconds with 1 red sector

Height: 82 feet

DayMark: White dwelling on brown pile foundation with black lantern

History: Constructed in 1886. First Lighted November 1, 1886.

Lens: Original: Fourth-order revolving Fresnel lens (1886). Fourth-order Fresnel lens (1889). Present: Solar-powered 250mm lantern. Focal Plane: 66 feet.

Construction: Architect and Builder unknown. House-style lighthouse on iron screwpiles constructed of wood and iron.

Operated by: United States Coast Guard

Location: 43 miles west of Key West

Visit Status: Accessible by boat

Facilities: None, no handicap access

Visitor Info: Accessible by boat only out of Key West

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Overview

Set atop Bastion C of Fort Jefferson, Garden Key Lighthouse is a 25-foot hexagonal iron tower whose elevated position places the light well above the harbor. Its dark silhouette is visible throughout the fort and contrasts sharply with the massive red-brick walls.

History

A 65-foot brick lighthouse was completed on Garden Key in 1826, becoming the first light in the Dry Tortugas. Loggerhead Key’s taller tower took over the major seacoast role in 1858. After an 1873 hurricane damaged the Garden Key station, inspectors recommended replacing it with an iron tower on the fort. The present lighthouse was first lighted on April 5, 1876. A fire destroyed the keeper’s dwelling in 1912 and led to automation with acetylene. The light was discontinued in 1921, though decorative lights were later placed in the lantern. The National Park Service began a major restoration in 2020.

Visiting & Access

Garden Key is reached by authorized ferry, seaplane, or private boat. Visitors can walk around Fort Jefferson and obtain excellent exterior views of the lighthouse, but the tower itself is closed. Reservations are strongly recommended for ferry or seaplane travel.

Current Status

The National Park Service owns and preserves the lighthouse within Dry Tortugas National Park. It is no longer an official aid to navigation; small lights in the lantern are ornamental. The surrounding fort is open, while the tower remains closed.

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