The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse on Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story in Virginia Beach has recently reopened to civilians. The requirements for entry are shown below. At the time of making a reservation one has to complete a SECNAV 5512 form for a background check. The form is good for 30 days and has to be completed at least 5 days before the date of visit.
A brief history of the Old Lighthouse during the Civil War from Charles Hatch Jr’s Survey Report is shown below (link). I am still looking for primary source data from the Official Records regarding the destruction of the light (early in the war in 1861) and its restoration (sometime in 1863 ?).
