In 1888, the U. S. Congress set aside $35,000 for the U.S. Lighthouse Service to build a lighthouse on Boca Grande   (the deepest natural port in the state). The light was first lit on December 31, 1890.  It was used to mark Boca Grande Pass, the entrance to Charlotte Harbor.

     It is a 2 story.frame building raised on iron screw piles.  The height is 44 feet   The octagonal latern was placed in a cupola at the peak of the roof.  A similar building was placed next to the lighthouse.  This was the house for the assistant lighthouse keeper.

     During World War 2, the lighthouse was used to watch for German U boats

     The light was deactivated in 1966.

     It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places .