It sits on Raccoon Key, about 10 miles southwest of the entrance to the Santee River. Built in 1858 of wood and brick, it replaced the original 1827 tower, some of which is still standing nearby. The replacement was deemed necessary because it was thought that the older lighthouse was an inadequate one with regard to lighting and positioning. Decommissioned in 1947, the Cape Romain Lighthouse was known for years as the Leaning Lighthouse because its foundation began to sink after its construction. The Cape Romain Lighthouse now belongs to the U.S. Coast Guard and is used as a navigational aid, even though its light no longer shines to guide sailors safely to shore.
Current efforts are underway to stabilize both lighthouses, which are slowly giving way to erosion.
Neither lighthouse is open to the public, but you can see them by boat or on land. To get to McClellanville, take U.S. 17 until mile marker 33, then look for the sign on the right marking the intersection of S.C. Highway 45. Turn right and continue straight until you reach McClellanville. PageWise makes no representations about the content published on this site. PageWise hereby disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to this information, and user agrees that all such use is at its own risk.