Coastal Georgia Historical Society
For over five decades, the Coastal Georgia Historical Society has meticulously safeguarded historic collections and structures like the Lighthouse, Keeper’s Dwelling and the Historic Coast Guard Station at East Beach. Initially opening the Keeper’s Dwelling as a coastal history museum in 1975, the Society later managed public access to the Lighthouse tower. Acquiring the Lighthouse through the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act in 2004, the Society undertook significant restoration efforts completed in 2010 and 2014. They also converted the Coast Guard Station into the Home Front Museum, celebrating Glynn County’s wartime contributions. A recent capital campaign marking the Lighthouse’s 150th birthday, raised over $1 million for preservation. Now that the Preservation Fund has $2 million, the Historical Society can plan for proactive maintenance. With 65,000 annual museum visitors and several hundred thousand visiting the grounds and Lighthouse, this work ensures these iconic landmarks will receive the specialized care that they need and remain available to the public well into the future.
Excellence in Stewardship Awards recognize those who ensure the preservation of historic properties through long-term care and maintenance, stabilization, protection or continuous family ownership.
