It was the third lighthouse to stand at the mouth of the St. Johns River, and was designed specifically to overcome the previous structures' problems with visibility and erosion.

However, view of the light from sea was often blocked by shifting sand dunes, and by 1853 its foundation was so disturbed by erosion that plans were made to replace it.

While Federal forces occupied the area, Daniels was arrested for showing light signals from the top of the tower at night.

Other reports of Confederates shooting out the light to hamper Union ships attempting to locate the river have not been verified.

A study in the 20th century determined that this plan was never carried out, though the light station canopy was remodeled, and the present copper cupola was installed.

The Navy demolished an attached one-story building and raised the grade of the surrounding land by about seven feet.

It currently stands at 85 feet tall, with a red brick tower, slate stairs and balcony, and a white watch room topped by a copper cupola.

[2] A local group, the Mayport Lighthouse Association, hope to undertake a full restoration and open the structure to the public.