Head Harbour Lightstation – A Beacon Since 1829For nearly two centuries, Head Harbour Lightstation with the distinctive red cross of St.George has stood watch over the entrance to Head Harbour Passage. Built in 1829 with massive wooden beams, it has guided thousands of vessels safely through these waters—from local fishing boats and majestic sailing ships to cargo freighters and, more recently, large cruise ships.
Providing safe passage for mariners has always been the station's primary purpose. It is a role it continues to fulfill today. And it certainly doesn't hurt that the lighthouse has become one of the most beloved destinations for visitors who admire its striking beauty.
Modern electronic navigation has eliminated many of the dangers faced by early sailors. Yet the lighthouse's glowing red beacon and booming foghorn remain on duty, ready to guide ships whenever modern electronics fail and a captain seeks the safety of a nearby harbour.
Standing guard at the northern tip of Campobello Island for almost 200 years has only been possible through constant maintenance.
For generations, lighthouse keepers faithfully tended the light, first fueled by whale oil, then kerosene, and eventually electricity magnified through a Fresnel lens. In addition to keeping the light burning, they were responsible for maintaining the buildings, while the Canadian Coast Guard supplied the necessary materials.
Head Harbour Lightstation consists of five historic buildings, and the need for maintenance never ends.
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In 2006, ownership of the Lightstation was transferred from the Canadian Coast Guard to a dedicated group of volunteers committed to preserving these historic structures. The Canadian Coast Guard continues to operate and maintain the lighthouse beacon and foghorn.The first major challenge was saving the surrounding seawall from collapse. At a cost of nearly $250,000, the seawall was successfully restored. Since then, the buildings have undergone continuous restoration. New roofs have been installed, hundreds of gallons of paint applied, and thousands of volunteer hours invested in scraping, repairing, and repainting the structures over the past twenty years.
But the fierce winter storms of the North Atlantic are relentless. Each year they leave their mark. Over the past two winters, powerful winds tore shingles from the lighthouse tower, leaving numerous gaps in its protective walls.
We finally have the manpower for repairs. A long and heavy ladder was raised the other day. The hole will be repaired with new shingles, then the ladder will be moved to the next hole, and the next......
Meanwhile, at low tide, visitors continue to make the unforgettable walk across the ocean floor to reach the Lightstation. From there, they climb the steps to the top of the 55-foot tower, where breathtaking 360-degree views stretch across the Bay of Fundy. On lucky days, they may even spot the telltale spouts of whales passing offshore.
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| Door to the boat house, destroyed by a winter storm 2 winters ago |
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| Repairs on the boat house with old shingles being replaced |
For nearly 200 years, Head Harbour Lightstation has welcomed mariners home. Today, it also welcomes visitors from around the world—offering not only spectacular scenery, but a living connection to Canada's rich maritime heritage..jpeg) |
| And then we found this one along the Colorado River in Arizona |
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