Cape D'Or Lighthouse

The Cape D'Or Lighthouse is situated on Cape Dor Road, Advocate Harbour, Canada.

History

• The lighthouse was constructed in 1859 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners navigating the treacherous waters of the Gulf of Maine. The structure has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, with the most recent being in the 1990s.

Architecture

The Cape D'Or Lighthouse is a classic example of a 19th-century lighthouse design, featuring a square tower with a distinctive red-and-white striped exterior. The tower stands at an impressive height of 30 meters (98 feet), while the focal height reaches 48 meters (157 feet) above sea level.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse is equipped with a first-order Fresnel lens, which produces a characteristic white flash every 15 seconds. The light has a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers), making it an essential aid for mariners navigating the area.

Current Status

The Cape D'Or Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it is no longer fully automated. Visitors can still access the lighthouse and view its historic Fresnel lens.

Heritage Status

The Cape D'Or Lighthouse has been designated as a National Historic Site of Canada, recognizing its importance in Canadian maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the lighthouse played an important role in guiding Allied ships through the Gulf of Maine. In 1943, the lighthouse was used as a reference point for navigation by American and British warships.