The Morris Island Lighthouse

Save the Light, Inc. is currently in Phase III of its preservation planning. This phase focuses on restoring the the tower as well as the interior stairwells, rails, roof, glass, and more. It is scheduled to be cleaned and repainted according to National Park Service historic structure guidelines. Phase I of the restoration began in 2007 and consisted of initial efforts of stabilization for the tower.  Devices were installed that monitored cracks, leaning, and general vibrations daily.  Ultimately, Phase I was completed in 2008 with a cost of around $3 million. Phase II began in 2010.  Phase II was focused on stabilizing the lighthouse as it now sits at the waters edge. You can view the stabilization plans presented by Save the Light, Inc. here or at the pdf link below.  

Save the Light details the plans as follows: 

• Page 1 shows the layout for the new micro-piles that were installed around the perimeter of the lighthouse foundation. There were a total of 68 micro-piles installed at 75 tons each capacity.
• Page 2 shows the actual location of the micro-piles and how they were spaced around the foundation. All of the work was inside of the cofferdam installed in 2008.
• Page 3 shows an elevation view of the new piles in relation to the original piles. The new piles were installed into the marl layer under the lighthouse. The area between the cofferdam and the foundation was filled with sand and capped with stone.

 In August, 2010, the project was completed that stabilized the lighthouse by placing a ring of concrete around it at a cost of $734,313.  SC Picture project has a display of photos displaying these efforts as well.  Currently, the Army Corps of Engineers requires periodic inspections of the lighthouse.  Restoration costs are expected to be around $7 million.

In 2016, the Morris Lighthouse was lit once more.  The lighting ceremony celebrated the 140th anniversary of the lighthouse's first illumination.  Each year a half marathon, 5k race, and other fundraisers take place to raise money for the continued care of the historic lighthouse.  

If you are interested in contributing to the cause or learning more about it please visit Save the Light, Inc.

Below are photographs displaying efforts of Phase I of the lighthouse's restoration.  The pictures are provided courtesy of Save the Light, Inc. You can view their page on preservation for more expansive galleries of the restoration.

Below are some photos from Phase II of the stabilization of the lighthouse.  Photos are courtesy of Save the Light, Inc.  The Phase II contract was granted to Palmetto Gunite Construction Company, Ravenel, SC, for just under $2 million.