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Abstract
Interpretation at a historic site is usually considered successful if visitors become engaged with the material and significance of that site. Can successful interpretation take place without the ability to visit? Using Freeman Tilden’s six principles, I examine interpretation efforts at Morris Island lighthouse, located offshore in Charleston Harbor. The lighthouse is currently undergoing lengthy restoration work, and the site is inaccessible. It will probably remain closed for the foreseeable future. Despite the challenges, I conclude that it is possible to deliver adequate interpretation under severe restrictions such as those in place at Morris Island. I also examine interpretation at other lighthouses as examples to incorporate at Morris Island in the future, and make recommendations based on these precedents and analysis of Tilden’s principles.