Historical MarkerHalf Moon Reef Lighthouse
Port Lavaca · Calhoun County · Dedicated 1980 · THC Atlas #5057002332
The roadside stories worth pulling over for.
Marker Inscription
Constructed in 1858, this three-story hexagonal lighthouse was originally located in Matagorda Bay, at the southern tip of Half Moon reef. The beacon served as an aid to ships trading in Port Lavaca and the nearby town of Indianola (14 mi. SE). During the Civil War the light was disabled by Confederate troops in an attempt to disrupt federal efforts to capture southern blockade runners. The lighthouse was restored to full operation in 1868 and remained in service until 1943 when it was moved to Point Comfort (7 mi. NE). It was relocated here in 1979. (1980)
About this site
Half Moon Reef Lighthouse is a historical marker in Port Lavaca, Calhoun County, dedicated in 1980. It is one of 36 historical markers documented in Calhoun County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 56 historic sites cataloged across the county.
The site sits at 28.6371, -96.6176 near Port Lavaca. The nearest cataloged historic site is First Baptist Church of Port Lavaca (historical marker), about 0.9 miles away. Others within a short drive include Ranger Cemetery, Beach Hotel, and First Presbyterian Church of Port Lavaca.
This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5057002332. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.
