The Hunting Island Lighthouse guided mariners along the South Carolina coast for many years. The first lighthouse, constructed of brick and completed in 1859, was demolished by Confederate troops during the early days of the Civil War. The present lighthouse, built of interlocking cast iron plates, was completed in 1875. The light station was originally located on the northern end of the island, but severe beach erosion forced its relocation to this site in 1889. The light continued to aid navigators until 1933, when a buoy took over its function. In addition to the lighthouse, the station included housing for the staff and the supplies and equipment necessary to keep the light burning. Within this fence are the remaining original buildings and archaeological traces of the Hunting Island Light Station.