Channel Head Lighttower

The Channel Head Lighttower is a historic lighthouse located on Lawrence Lane in Channel-Port aux Basques, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

History

• The Channel Head Lighttower was constructed in 1868 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the harbour of Channel-Port aux Basques. The tower has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, with the most significant being in the 1990s.

Architecture

The lighthouse is a communication-style tower, built from cast iron and standing at a height of approximately 25 metres (82 feet) above sea level. Its focal height is around 35 metres (115 feet), providing an effective range of several miles for mariners navigating the harbour. The tower's design is characteristic of mid-19th-century lighthouses in Canada.

Light Characteristics

The Channel Head Lighttower features a first-order Fresnel lens, which casts a distinctive pattern of light onto the surrounding waters. The light has a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km), making it an essential aid to navigation for mariners entering the harbour.

Current Status

The Channel Head Lighttower is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation in the 1990s. The tower remains an important part of the maritime heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Location and Accessibility

The Channel Head Lighttower is located on Lawrence Lane in Channel-Port aux Basques, a small town situated on the eastern coast of Newfoundland. The lighthouse is accessible via a short walk from the harbour entrance, where visitors can view the tower from a distance.

Heritage Status

The Channel Head Lighttower has been designated as a historic site by the Government of Canada, recognizing its importance in the country's maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• The Channel Head Lighttower played a significant role during World War II, serving as an important aid to navigation for Allied forces. The tower also experienced damage during a storm in 1970, which led to a major restoration project in the following years.