The retreating troops destroyed the lighthouse to prevent it from aiding the navigation of U.S. Navy warships.

[3] In 1972, the Coast Guard placed rear range lights on two towers at the entrance to the Frederica River off of St. Simons Sound.

The Coastal Georgia Historical Society spent three years restoring the two-story Victorian lightkeepers' cottage at the base of the lighthouse, which was then converted into a museum.

For a fee, the public can tour the museum and climb the 129 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a view of St. Simons Sound and the surrounding area.

[4] The light mechanism is maintained by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, led by Jeff Cole since 1993.

The lighthouse is a picturesque and beloved symbol of St. Simons Island and Glynn County, Georgia.

A temporary spotlight attached to the galley of the lighthouse continued to guide ships into the Sound while the main light was out of operation.

The Society also operates the World War II Home Front Museum on St. Simons.