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Expert Review of Key West Lighthouse Museum

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Parks and Outdoors Review of Key West Lighthouse Museum

Away Travel Expert: Mike Sigalas

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ParksExpert Rating Recommended for:
Birding,Day Hiking,Scenic Drives

Parks and OutdoorsExpert Tips & Helpful Hints

• The first lighthouse was built here in 1825 and destroyed by a hurricane 21 years later. In 1847 the first 46 feet of the present tower was built; in 1894 it was extended to its present-day 86 feet.
• Of course you should climb to the top, simply on principle. But if that's not enough, then climb for the sweeping views of the water, the Hemingway Home, and the views of the rest of Key West.
• The Great Havana Hurricane of 1846 hit here after having killed between 160 and 600 people in Cuba. When the Category Five storm arrived, lightkeeper Barbara Mabrity stayed at her post until the tower collapsed, killing five of her children.