Charleston, September 22, 2025
News Summary
The cypress tree trunk lighthouse, known as ‘Grayson’s Tree of Knowledge’, has stood on Heriot Street in Charleston for over 60 years. Founded by Grayson Carter Sr., the landmark symbolizes wisdom and curiosity, attracting both locals and visitors alike. With differing family accounts about its origin, the hollow trunk has become an iconic figure, supported by a steel pole and commemorated with a plaque honoring Carter Sr. The lighthouse continues to hold a significant place in the Carter family’s legacy and Charleston’s community.
Charleston has been home to a unique landmark, a cypress tree trunk lighthouse, for over 60 years. Standing resolutely on Heriot Street, the lighthouse has become a point of curiosity for locals and visitors alike. Grayson Carter Sr. is credited with procuring the cypress tree trunk around 1965, although there is some uncertainty about whether it was originally planted as a monument for his lumber business or sourced from elsewhere.
The tree trunk lighthouse, affectionately referred to as “Grayson’s Tree of Knowledge,” symbolizes wisdom and has prompted many questions about its origins, including why a deceased tree was used and a light installed atop it. Beside the lighthouse is Carter’s City Self-Storage, which has been a part of the neighborhood for years.
Grayson Carter Sr. had a humble beginning, moving from North Carolina to Charleston. He started his career as a water boy for a lumber company before establishing the G.S. Carter & Son Lumber Co. in 1932, a venture that still operates today next to the self-storage facility. Family accounts regarding how the cypress tree trunk was obtained differ; some say it was pulled from a lake, while others maintain it was taken during a fishing trip. Grayson Carter Sr. discovered that the trunk was hollow and even contained freshwater clams. Unable to utilize the tree for lumber, he ingeniously threaded a steel pole through it and secured it in concrete, ensuring it would remain upright.
The lighthouse has become a central piece of the Carter family’s legacy, with Grayson Carter IV, the great-grandson of Grayson Carter Sr., considering it highly significant. A plaque mounted on the lighthouse honors Grayson Carter Sr., featuring one of his reflections on societal discontent. This monument has resonated with many visitors who appreciate the “timeless wisdom” it embodies, leading to references and discussions on online forums and social media platforms.
Jody High, known for exploring offbeat roadside attractions, has referred to the tree trunk lighthouse as a “Charleston landmark,” highlighting its unique place in the city’s cultural fabric. Although Grayson Carter Sr. passed away in 1981 at the age of 96, the cypress tree trunk lighthouse remains firmly in place, deemed unmovable and an iconic feature of Charleston’s landscape.
Key Facts
- Location: Heriot Street, Charleston
- Height: Vertical cypress tree trunk
- Established: Circa 1965
- Foundation: Supported by steel pole and concrete
- Family Business: G.S. Carter & Son Lumber Co.
- Recognition: Featured in online forums and social media
- Commemorative Plaque: Honors Grayson Carter Sr.
Background
The tree trunk lighthouse has evolved from a humble lumber-related project to a cherished landmark, serving as a testament to Grayson Carter Sr.’s creativity and influence on Charleston’s lumber industry and community. This unconventional structure stands out in a city filled with traditional architecture, acting as a conversation starter among passersby and a lasting reminder of the legacy of one of Charleston’s notable figures.
FAQs
What is the cypress tree trunk lighthouse?
The cypress tree trunk lighthouse has stood on Heriot Street in Charleston for over 60 years and attracts many curious onlookers.
Who is Grayson Carter Sr.?
Grayson Carter Sr. is known to have procured the cypress tree trunk around 1965.
What is “Grayson’s Tree of Knowledge”?
The lighthouse is sometimes referred to as “Grayson’s Tree of Knowledge” for the wisdom it imparts.
Where is Carter’s City Self-Storage located?
Carter’s City Self-Storage is located beside the tree trunk lighthouse.
What are some family accounts about the cypress tree trunk’s origin?
Family members shared contrasting accounts of how the cypress tree trunk was sourced: some say it was pulled from a lake, while others claim it was taken from a fishing trip.
What does the plaque on the lighthouse honor?
A plaque on the lighthouse honors Grayson Carter Sr. and features one of his musings about societal discontent.
What do visitors say about the lighthouse?
The landmark has been recognized by visitors for its “timeless wisdom,” with some referencing it in online forums and social media.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Heriot Street, Charleston |
| Height | Vertical cypress tree trunk |
| Established | Circa 1965 |
| Foundation | Supported by steel pole and concrete |
| Family Business | G.S. Carter & Son Lumber Co. |
| Recognition | Featured in online forums and social media |
| Commemorative Plaque | Honors Grayson Carter Sr. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Charleston’s Cypress Tree Trunk Lighthouse
- Wikipedia: Lighthouse
- NY Times: Best LED Lantern
- Google Search: Charleston landmarks
- Charleston Currents: Lighthouse Day and Literary Festival
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lighthouse
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
