Difficulties plagued early construction of Jupiter Inlet's lighthouse, creating an interesting story of its early history. It is easy to imagine the problems arising as boats and barges were used to haul in building materials where no river channels or roads existed. Conflicts with Florida's warring Seminole Tribe spelled uneasy moments for the labor force. Nearby warm, stagnant water was a perfect mosquito habitat and swarms of these annoying pests spread Yellow Fever and Malaria. The structure was completed in 1859, only to be snuffed out by Confederate sympathizers the following year.
Today the lighthouse sits proudly atop its knoll, just recently refurbished. The oil house below was converted to a museum and gift shop. Volunteers offer weekend tours and gladly provide information.