Tchefuncte River Lighthouse
Madisonville, Louisiana

The original lighthouse was constructed in 1838. It was so badly damaged in the Civil War that the lighthouse engineer tore it down and rebuilt the tower on it's old foundation. It's lantern was transferred from the destroyed Cat Island station.

Construction is of brick on a stone foundation. It's tower height of 30 feet gives the focal plane a height of 100 feet above sea level.

The tower is only accessible by boat. However, it is possible to view from across the water. From Highway 22, turn south onto Main Street, which runs parallel to the river. Approximately 1 1/2 to 2 miles down this road, after going over a narrow wooden bridge, there is a small park and boat launch. Turn right when you reach the park. About a tenth of a mile takes you to the shore directly across the water from the lighthouse.

Viewing location GPS    30.22.784N
                                     090.09.785W

For information about charity cruises on the Tchefuncte
River, go to the Le Bon Temps Roule web page.

Photo of 1838 lighthouse station.
Photo of 1857 lighthouse station.

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