Lighthouses evoke a universal connection, stirring powerful emotions as symbols of mankind’s best qualities. The Biloxi Lighthouse's location was initially perplexing because it was in the middle of a highway. A visit to the city's museum reveals its true character upon closer inspection.
Unlike those beacons offering peace, the lighthouse stands as a resilient guardian over a city marked by turbulent times, enduring over 20 hurricanes, the Civil War, Civil Rights, and Confederate protests since 1848.
Female lightkeepers in Biloxi exhibited remarkable heroism during these tumultuous periods. Biloxi Lighthouse has the distinction of having the longest service for female light keepers.
Mary Reynolds, serving in the Civil War, petitioned the governor amidst local demands for the lighthouse key and oil theft. Maria Youghans maintained the light during a storm, with feet of water in her room, dedicating over 51 years of service. Miranda Youghans continued her mother’s legacy.
Leaving the lighthouse, I walked across the street and I encountered a group protesting South Carolina’s Confederate flag removal. Amidst a bevy pick-up trucks, I quietly listened, surprising them with my calm approach.