The Amite River lighthouse located at the mouth of the Amite River and Lake Maurepas was built in 1882. The lighthouse stood 45 feet above sea level having a living dwelling along the side.

The lighthouse was a one-story, white frame dwelling on pillars with a pyramid tower that contained a fog bell. The tower was adjoining the lighthouse. The bell was struck every 30 seconds by machine during foggy weather to guide boats into the river.

Madison “Mack” Crawford (1861-1928) was the first lighthouse keeper.

The lighthouse no longer stands at the mouth of the Amite River, but if you look at the site during a low tide, you can still see a glimpse of its remains that lay in the shallow water visible to those who stop by to check it out.

The Louisiana Treasures Museum has a collection of antique bottles and bricks that were found at this site. Come by, see the collection and hear other stories about these great lighthouses. For hours of operation and tours, call 225-294-8352.

Wayne Norwood is a lieutenant with the St. John Parish Sheriff’s Department and owner and operator of the Louisiana Treasures Museum located at 10290 Highway 22, West Pontchatoula.