Old Harbor Light (Savannah, Georgia) facts for kids
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| Old Harbor Light in Emmett Park | |
 Savannah Harbor Rear Range Light
Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
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| Location | Emmett Park, Savannah, Georgia, United States |
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| Coordinates | 32°04′46″N 81°05′03″W / 32.07932°N 81.08429°W |
| Year first constructed | 1858 |
| Construction | cast iron |
| Tower shape | shaft |
| Markings / pattern | dark green |
| Height | 25 feet (7.6 m) |
| Focal height | 77 feet (23.5 m) |
| ARLHS number | USA-1387 |
The Old Harbor Light, also known as the Savannah Harbor Rear Range Light, is a special kind of aid to navigation located in Emmet Park in Savannah, Georgia. It looks like a giant street light. This historic light is part of the Savannah Historic District. The government built it in 1858.
History of the Old Harbor Light
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The United States Lighthouse Board put up this light in 1858. It was a "rear range light." This means it worked with a "front light" on Fig Island. Together, they helped guide ships safely into the Savannah Harbor. This also helped ships avoid six British ships. These ships were sunk on purpose in 1779. They were meant to block French and American ships during the Revolutionary War.
The light was moved a few feet south in 1869. It was fixed up and made new again in 1929. The light was turned off during World War II.
In 1958, the Trustees Garden Club worked on Emmet Park. At that time, the light was in bad shape. Salt water had caused a lot of damage. Workers used strong cables to make it stable.
A big plan was made to fix Savannah's old monuments. The Old Harbor Light was part of this plan. The Savannah Morning News and CSX Corporation gave $125,000. In 2000, the light was taken down. It was moved to a nearby workshop. Rust was removed using special chemicals. Repairs were made, and it was painted again. The light was cleaned too. It was put back up and lit again on January 11, 2001.
Design of the Old Harbor Light
The light has a strong cast iron pole. It looks like a very tall street light. It stands about 25 feet (7.6 m) high. Its light shines from 77 feet (23.5 m) above the river. It might have been brought from England or France.
It was first reported to shine a red light. Today, it is lit with a pretty gas light.
