SCOTLAND, Md. — The historic Point Lookout Lighthouse, located at the southern tip of Point Lookout State Park in St. Mary’s County, will open to the public on Thursday, May 15, 2025, following extensive renovations. Managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the lighthouse will welcome visitors five days a week, Thursday through Monday, with hours dependent on seasonal staffing through September. The $5 million project, which began in 2017, restored the 1830 structure and introduced new exhibits to showcase its maritime history.
The lighthouse, situated where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay, underwent significant repairs to stabilize its structure, fix leaks, replace drywall and timbers, rebuild stairways, and refinish former living quarters. Crews also restored the adjacent coal and buoy sheds, unique features that highlight the lighthouse’s operational past. New exhibits, including period furniture, an early radio, and detailed displays, offer a glimpse into early 20th-century life for lighthouse keepers and their families. The DNR acquired the property from the U.S. Navy in 2006 through a land swap, prompting the renovation efforts.
“There are two things that make the Point Lookout Lighthouse unique,” said Point Lookout State Park Complex Manager Dawn Letts. “One is that it’s the oldest integral lighthouse standing in the country. The other is the presence of the coal and buoy sheds. Typically, when lighthouses were automated, those sheds were removed. In this case, the U.S. Navy maintained them while they were using the property and can now be shared with the public.”
Built in 1830 by contractor John Donahoo, who constructed 11 other Maryland lighthouses, including Turkey Point and Piney Point, the Point Lookout Lighthouse was expanded in 1883 to two stories, raising the light to 41 feet above sea level. A kitchen and dining room were added in 1927. William Yeatman, the longest-serving keeper, managed the lighthouse from 1871 until his death in 1908. Several descendants of former keepers attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony in April 2025 to celebrate the renovation’s completion.
The coal and buoy sheds, preserved by the Navy, add historical depth to the site. The north shed was used by the Coast Guard to repair buoys for waterway navigation, while the south shed stored coal for heating and transportation. These structures, rarely retained at automated lighthouses, enhance the visitor experience by illustrating the operational logistics of maritime safety in the era before automation.
Point Lookout State Park, encompassing the lighthouse, is a popular destination for its scenic views of the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay, Civil War history, and recreational offerings. The park features a renovated deep-water fishing pier, hiking trails, and camping facilities, drawing visitors year-round. The lighthouse’s reopening adds a cultural attraction, inviting guests to explore its restored interiors and learn about the keepers who guided ships away from the shallow waters off Point Lookout.
The renovation project, funded by the DNR, reflects a commitment to preserving Maryland’s maritime heritage. The lighthouse’s exhibits highlight the daily lives of keepers, who maintained the light to ensure safe passage for vessels navigating the treacherous waters. Visitors can expect an immersive experience, with artifacts and displays that evoke the challenges and isolation of lighthouse life in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The lighthouse’s strategic location at the confluence of two major waterways underscores its historical significance. For over a century, it served as a critical navigational aid, preventing shipwrecks in an area known for its shallow hazards. The DNR’s investment in the property ensures that future generations can appreciate its role in Maryland’s coastal history.
Point Lookout State Park anticipates increased visitation with the lighthouse’s reopening, particularly during the summer season. The Thursday-to-Monday schedule accommodates weekend travelers while balancing staffing needs. The DNR plans to evaluate the schedule after September, potentially adjusting hours based on visitor demand and resource availability. The lighthouse’s return to public access marks a milestone for St. Mary’s County, enhancing the park’s appeal as a destination for history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.