Cove Island Light

The Cove Island Light has been a vital navigational aid on the narrow channel between Lake Huron and Georgian Bay since 30 October 1858.

History

• The Cove Island Light was the first of six stone Imperial Towers to be completed, all of which were illuminated by 1859.
• These lighthouses were built at a time when commercial shipping traffic was increasing on the Great Lakes due to new trade agreements and the opening of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal locks in 1855.

Architecture

The Cove Island Light is constructed from stone and features a distinctive design characteristic of the Imperial Towers.

Light Characteristics

The Cove Island Light emits a white light with a range of 11 nautical miles and a period of 10 seconds.

The light's character is reportedly marked by an "Fl" symbol, indicating that it is a fixed light.

Current Status

All six Imperial Towers, including the Cove Island Light, are currently operating as automated lights.

Location and Accessibility

The Cove Island Light is situated on Gig Point in Fathom Five National Marine Park, but is not part of the park.

The location's accessibility is reportedly limited due to its remote position.

The Tower, Cove Island, Ontario, was formally registered on the Canadian Register of Historic Places in 2014.

Notable Historical Events

• The opening of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal locks in 1855 marked a significant milestone for commercial shipping traffic on the Great Lakes.
• The construction and illumination of the six Imperial Towers, including the Cove Island Light, took place during this period, highlighting the importance of these navigational aids for maritime trade.

Heritage Status

The Tower, Cove Island, Ontario, was formally registered on the Canadian Register of Historic Places in 2014.