
Charleston, South Carolina houses the most modern lighthouse in the US. It was built in 1962, and is so modern that there is no need for the Coast Guard personnel to climb the steps to the top, they just take the elevator. (An update from a Coast Guard EM2 reports that the elevator only works about 50% of the time given its age.)
The tower itself is 140 feet tall, and used to house a 28 million candlepower optic. This optic was removed in the 1960s in favor of two DCB-24 beacons. The flash pattern is one flash and about a second later the second flash. The lights are mounted at different angles and rotate at about 2 RPM. This tower marks the entrance to Charleston Harbor.
Directions: In Mt. Pleasant, take SC703 south. You will cross Sawyer Memorial Bridge to Sullivan's Island. You will come to a stop sign, there will also be a sign to Fort Moultrie. Take a right onto Middle Street and follow it to Station 18 1/2. Make a left and look up. Please note that this lighthouse is closed to the public.
(Station is just like a street name)

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