Principal author of the Declaration of Independence, patriot, and third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, celebrated July 4, 1801 by opening the White House, greeting diplomats, civic and military officers, citizens and Cherokee chiefs in the Oval Saloon, now today’s Blue Room. The Marine Band played while in the North grounds a festival took place with horse races, cock fights, a parade and food and drink available by booths set up that day. A bare headed Jefferson, with, “his locks flying in the breeze watched from the steps, and then invited all to partake in his hospitality and thanksgiving for the preservation of Independence” observed a reporter from The Washington Federalist.
While the National Historic Landmark Ponce Inlet Lighthouse can’t do military band music or horse racing for that matter, many a lighthouse tower climber has paraded to the top, whilst singing the praises of the top of the tower’s view, this year the lighthouse is opening its doors to celebrate July Fourth on that very Wednesday.
During the day, the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse staff and its docents will offer challenging and interesting tours of the station’s buildings, and fun-hands-on workshops for kids. Each child under seven will receive a take-home craft to commemorate the concept of July 4th and America’s special symbol, our flag.
All day long, keeper-docents in United States Lighthouse Service uniforms will answer questions and conduct orientation tours of the lighthouse station. Climbing Florida’s tallest lighthouse, in fact the third tallest lighthouse in the nation, with its breath-taking view from the gallery, is always a special treat. In addition, the station’s many historic buildings are devoted to the narrative of the American lighthouse service and the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse story. Each building houses interesting exhibits and artifacts and are now museums devoted to the chronicle of the American lighthouse service and the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse story. A nationally acclaimed Lens Museum features an unparalleled assortment of rare Fresnel Lenses, the largest private collection among maritime museums in the world.
Admission to all special programs is included in the regular Ponce Inlet Lighthouse fees. For more information, please contact the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse at 386-761-1821, Extension 18.
