Sand Island’s story begins in the early 1800s. Originally a much larger landmass exceeding four hundred acres, it served as a vital navigational point for ships entering Mobile Bay, a crucial port for trade and commerce. Recognizing the island’s importance, Congress authorized the construction of a land marker in 1828, followed by a more substantial lighthouse in 1838. This iconic structure, built in the Italianate style, stands 132 feet tall, a testament to the ingenuity of nineteenth-century engineers. However, Sand Island’s existence has been a constant battle against the elements.
Erosion relentlessly gnawed away at its shores, shrinking the island and threatening the lighthouse’s stability. Nature’s wrath was not the only threat. Hurricanes like Ivan (2004) and Katrina (2005) further damaged the lighthouse, leading to its decommissioning as a lighthouse in 2007. Despite these challenges, Sand Island retains its historical significance. In recent years, a glimmer of hope emerged.
Recognizing the island’s importance as a natural habitat and historical landmark, federal funding was secured to replenish the eroding shores with dredged sand. This project, completed in 2019, has not only stabilized the lighthouse but also revived the island’s ecosystem, attracting birds and marine life. Today, Sand Island stands as a symbol of perseverance. The lighthouse, though no longer operational, serves as a reminder of Alabama’s maritime history and the dedication of those who ensured safe passage for countless vessels. While the island itself is not accessible to the public, it remains a captivating sight for boaters and nature enthusiasts traversing Mobile Bay. Whether you’re a history buff or simply admire the beauty of the Alabama coast, Sand Island offers a glimpse into the past while reminding us of the enduring power of nature and the human spirit’s ability to adapt and preserve.
Photo Caption: The Ever Majestic Sand Island Lighthouse by Teaves August 5, 2020.
Additional resources
- Kazek, Kelly. “The History and Mystery of Alabama’s Sand Island.” https://www.al.com/life/2020/09/the-history-and-mystery-of-alabamas-sand-island-light.html, 20 Sept. 2020, www.al.com/life/2020/09/the-history-and-mystery-of-alabamas-sand-island-light.html.
- Lighthouse Friends. “Sand Island Light.” Lighthouse Friends. [No date]. Web. 19 April 2024.
- *Teaves. “The Ever Majestic Sand Island Lighthouse”. (WikipediaCommons), (2020). CC BY-SA 4.0. (https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=95622539).
About the author
Keri Ann Webb lives in Hoover, AL with her husband, 4 children and a crazy cattle dog. She has lived in Alabama all her life and summers in Fort Morgan and is a new avid European travel planner for her large family.
