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In 1988 Dade Heritage Trust (DHT) began a project to restore the Cape Florida Lightstation to it's 1855 glory. Despite some work in the early 70's, the tower had generally sat alone and uncared for. Plans included replacing the iron spiral staircase and lens room and whitewashing the interior and exterior of the tower.
While the project would cost nearly $1.5 million, DHT was able to raise $900,000 thru grants and private donations. Donations were raised, in part, from the "Cape Florida Lighthouse Brick Program". Two types of bricks were available: a limited edition of historic bricks removed from the tower or engravable Brick Pavers placed at the entrance to the Lightstation. These items are still available for purchase through DHT.
After Hurricane Andrew (1992, Cat 5) passed thru South Florida, there was further damage to the tower and adjacent buildings and grounds. Over 23,000 bricks would be replaced and the tower would be painted with a historically correct lime mortar wash to further protect the tower. The watchroom, stairs, and downstairs door would be recreated to their 1855 condition. The Villagers, Inc., also raised money for repairs to the Keepers Cottage and Cook House which were turned into educational displays.
The repairs were culminated in July of 1996 with a Re-Lighthing Ceremony during Miami's Centennial Celebration. Eight years and thousands of labor hours later, Cape Florida is a beautiful sight to behold!