Explore RGV

Experience the first official lighting of the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse in 117 years on December 9!

The Texas Historical Commission funded and coordinated the reproduction of a lens to be fitted into the lantern room at the top of the lighthouse. The new installation will offer visitors to Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site a glimpse into the working past of the structure and the service it provided to the Gulf Coast.

The THC’s Historic Sites Division contracted with ArtGlass Florida for the design, fabrication, and installation of an accurate, functioning reproduction third-order Fresnel lens and lamp. The new lens is based on historic documents regarding the Port Isabel Lighthouse.

The Fresnel lens, named for physicist Augustin-Jean Fresnel, changed the world and saved countless lives—the early-1800s lens design was a monumental step forward in lighthouse lighting technology and maritime safety. This style of lens could produce an unlimited number of flashing combinations and intensified the light so it could be seen at longer distances, allowing mariners a greater deal of safety in their navigations near shore.

The lens installation event begins at 6:30 p.m. on December 9. Admission fees will be waived for the lighthouse and the keeper’s cottage on December 9 and 10. Event info: bit.ly/lighthousedec9

They love to play, show-off, and splash in our waters 🐬 Spot a friendly dolphin by taking hopping on a dolphin watch/eco-tour.

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Join us next week November 8, for an early preview of the newest exhibit, Aliento a Tequila.

Register using the link below.
https://bit.ly/3SQOK7u

Aliento a Tequila opens November 10, 2022, to the general public.
Exhibit sponsored by L&F Distributors