Near McClellanville lies an idyllic island seemingly untouched by man. Visitors are in awe of nature's landscape as they approach the isolated Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. Yet standing amidst all this rural beauty are two lone sentinels with memories of times past. These two lighthouses have a story to tell and history to spare.

Located on Raccoon Key, locally called "Lighthouse Island", the first sentinel was built in the early 1800's. After workers removed a windmill from thesite, a sixty-five foot, red brick tower was erected. The work was contracted to the infamous lighthouse builder, Winslow Lewis. Despite his vast experience, a vital error was made in the design of the tower. Halfway through construction, workers discovered that the walls did not slope at the proper angles. Even though orders were given to correct the error, the tower was completed despite the lean caused by poor construction.

Known by locals as the "Leaning Lighthouse", Cape Romain was decommissioned in 1947 and left to endure the ravages of time and vandalism. Windows were shattered and rain entered the sentinel, causing extensive water damage. Despite the apparent unstableness of the structures, both lighthouses have endured strong earthquakes and powerful storms, including a direct hit from hurricane Hugo. Modern structures on the island did not fair as well. Current efforts are underway to restore the two lighthouses. The beacons belong to the U.S. Coast Guard who continue to use them as daymarks.

Limited edition 6500 pieces.

Cape Romain, SC Harbour Lights Southern Region Item # HL283
Retirement Date: December 31, 2005!

Near McClellanville lies an idyllic island seemingly untouched by man. Visitors are in awe of nature's landscape as they approach the isolated Cap
Price: $70.95