The History of Dixon Hill Lighthouse

Dixon Hill Lighthouse was constructed between 1856 and 1887 as one of eleven manned light stations commissioned by the British Imperial Lighthouse Service to be built throughout The Bahamas. The lighthouse is constructed of steel (on the interior) and two feet of concrete (on the exterior). It was built on a plantation owned by John Dixon. Dixon and his wife are both buried only feet from the lighthouse. In 1973 when The Bahamas gained independence from Britain, the operation of the 11 lighthouses became the responsibility of The Bahamas Port Department. Over the next 39 years, those lighthouses would all be automated with the exception of the iconic red and white stripped Elbow Reef lighthouse in Hope Town, Abaco and the Dixon Hill Lighthouse in San Salvador. These historic treasures are the last kerosene-fueled, manned lighthouses in the world.

The Lightkeepers

Lighthouse keepers stand four-hour watches each night and refuel every two hours and 15 minutes. Four hundred thousand candles create beams of light visible up to 23 nautical miles.

Visiting the Lighthouse

Sitting 163 feet above sea level, Dixon Hill Lighthouse offers 360 degree views from its upper balcony. Visitors can access the upper balcony through a small hatch, be prepared to squat or crawl. It’s well worth the effort to enjoy a panoramic bird’s eye view of San Salvador island. Exercise caution when going out to the upper balcony. There is a railing but there are large spaces and children must be held closely.

It’s free to visit the lighthouse but donations are welcome and there’s a donation box on entry. The lighthouse is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. If you have mobility issues the stairs will be a challenge. Go climb those 80 steps to the top and be sure to sign the guest book before you say goodbye to this iconic landmark.