Piney Point Light, Lighthouse and maritime museum in St. Mary's County, Maryland.
Piney Point Light is a lighthouse and maritime museum on the western shore of the Potomac River in St. Mary's County. The white structure with a black lantern room sits on grounds that display original vessels and collections documenting life on the water.
The site was built in 1836 and was the first lighthouse on the Potomac River, guiding ships through dangerous shoals. For over 100 years, this light played a key role in keeping shipping safe in this region.
The museum displays show how this place connects to people who work with the river and keep their maritime traditions alive. Visitors can see through exhibits how ships and the river shaped the region's development.
The grounds are open to visitors during daylight hours, and you can climb the tower and explore the museum exhibits. It is best to wear comfortable shoes since there are stairs to climb and the grounds require some walking.
Underwater near the lighthouse lie the remains of a German submarine from World War II. This sunken vessel, which divers visit, tells a lesser-known story of this coastal region.
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