Last week in the article on Lighthouses, I began by giving you a little history on the Pass Manchac Lighthouse. This week I will continue with the Tchefuncte Lighthouse.

Built in 1838, the Tchefuncte lighthouse stands guarding the mouth of the Tchefuncte River. The light is 38 feet above sea level and is visible for 11 miles.

The lighthouse was rebuilt in 1857. In 1867, it had to be remodeled. Also in 1867, the lantern off the Cat Island lighthouse was shipped to the Tchefuncte lighthouse to be used because of damage to the Cat Island lighthouse tower.

This tower remains standing today looking out across the lake.

So next time you see that tall silent brick structure standing beside the waters edge, stop for a moment and think of all the history you are looking at, and don’t just pass it by.

Louisiana Treasures Museum has a large collection of bottles that I have personally found at the area of the Tchefuncte Lighthouse. Stop in to see the collection. For hours of operation and tours, call me at 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.