The beginning of Port Isabel Light was anything but ordinary. Congress appropriated $15,000 for a lighthouse and beacon light at Brazos, Santiago after Fort Polk was abandoned. The tower was completed in 1852 and was lit by four lamps, 57 feet above the ground. In 1857 a Third Order Fresnel Lens was installed with a fixed, flashing light.

Following the Civil War, the light station was overhauled, refitted and relit. The tower leaked very badly and by 1879 it was impossible to keep the lens and lamps dry during heavy rains. So in 1881, a new iron lantern was erected, illuminated by mineral oil lamps. But in 1887, a question as to whether the United States had rightful title to the land on which the light sat, caused the light to be discontinued and the station was abandoned.

Over the next six years efforts to purchase the land were finally resolved and the title was transferred in 1894. The light was finally re-established on July 15, 1895, but just ten years later, it was discontinued for good. Texas lighthouses had declined in importance as railroads replaced shipping lanes between the United States and Mexico.

The lighthouse fell into neglect and was sold by the government in 1927 to the highest bidder for $2,760. In 1950, the property was purchased from private owners and the Port Isabel Historic Site was created. Two years later, it was open to the public. A $320,000 Visitors Center, a replica of the original keeper’s cottage and surrounding fence, was completed in 1996, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department turned over daily operation of the Park to the City of Port Isabel, while retaining ownership.

Restoration of the lighthouse was completed in 2000, returning the sentinel to the appearance it would have had following its last major renovation in 1880. The project was extensive, including masonry, metal casting and fabrication, and structural repairs. Of the 16 lighthouses originally built along the Texas coast, Port Isabel is the only one open to the public. Disposition of the Third Order Lens is not recorded.

Although it had less than 20 years as an active lighthouse in its 150-year life, Port Isabel Light nonetheless established its place in maritime history. It is designated as a National Historic Landmark, and its scenic location on Lower Laguna Madre off South Padre Island makes the sentinel a major tourist attraction in the area. The tower is popular with photographers and romantics, as well. More than a few couples have climbed the 75 winding stairs and three short ladders to exchange wedding vows atop the tower!