The Tchefuncte River Light Station

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The Tchefuncte River Light Station
Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum
133 Mabel Drive
Madisonville, LA 70447
985.845.9200

Founded in 1837, the Tchefuncte River Light Station is a symbol of the dynamic maritime history and culture of Louisiana. The original tower was badly damaged during the Civil War and was rebuilt in 1867-1868 on the same foundation using many of the same bricks. The Light Station, its keepers, and their families weathered many hurricanes until 1939 when it was automated by the U.S. Coast Guard. In 1999 the property was transferred to the Town of Madisonville and continues to serve the community as a private aid to navigation and as an icon of Southeast Louisiana. The lighthouse was featured in the 2008 movie “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and is the subject of many lighthouse books and articles.

Today the lighthouse is managed by the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum for restoration as an education center in partnership with Southeastern Louisiana University. Stabilization of the lighthouse began in 2007 and restoration continues today funded by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Southeastern Museum Conference, a gift from the Southeastern Louisiana University Development Fund, and contributions from private groups and individuals. Visit the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum at 133 Mabel Drive, Madisonville, to learn more about the history of the lighthouse, the ecology of the Tchefuncte Marsh, and the history of Lake Pontchartrain.

Donations to support restoration of the Tchefuncte River Light Station and conservation of the Tchefuncte Marsh may be made through the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum and the Southeastern Louisiana University Foundation. For information call (985)845-9200 or click here to contact us.
The lighthouse and grounds are closed for safety during restoration and due to recent vandalism the “no access policy” is strictly enforced by the Madisonville Police and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Department. The lighthouse may be easily viewed by boat from the Tchefuncte River entrance channel or from shore at the southern end of Highway 1077, but those entering the property are subject to arrest and prosecution for trespassing. Look for information about our next fundraiser to support continuing work. Anticipated opening of the Tchefuncte River Light Station to restoration tours is 2010.

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Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum