Margaretsville Lighthouse

The Margaretsville Lighthouse has a rich history dating back to its construction in the late 19th century.

History

• The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the Bay of Fundy, one of the world's most turbulent and unpredictable bodies of water.
• Located on the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada, the lighthouse has played a vital role in maritime safety for over a century.
• The construction is believed to have been completed in 1880, although exact dates are not known.

Architecture

The Margaretsville Lighthouse is a classic example of a Victorian-era lighthouse design.

• The tower stands at an impressive height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of around 50 meters (164 feet).
• This allows the light to be seen from a distance of up to 20 nautical miles.

Light Characteristics

The Margaretsville Lighthouse is equipped with a rotating Fresnel lens that produces a characteristic pattern of red and white lights.

• The primary light is a fixed red light, while the secondary light is a flashing white light.

Current Status

The Margaretsville Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the 1980s.

• The lighthouse is still maintained by the Canadian Coast Guard and is regularly inspected to ensure its continued safe operation.
• In recent years, the lighthouse has undergone restoration work to preserve its historic integrity.

Location and Accessibility

The Margaretsville Lighthouse is located on Lighthouse Road in the rural community of Margaretsville, Nova Scotia.

• The lighthouse is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with parking available nearby.
• Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its surrounding grounds, which offer stunning views of the Bay of Fundy.

Heritage Status

The Margaretsville Lighthouse has been recognized as a historic site by the Canadian government.

• Its designation as a National Historic Site of Canada reflects its importance in maritime history and its continued role as an aid to navigation.

Notable Historical Events

The Margaretsville Lighthouse has played a significant role in several notable historical events, including:

• The construction of the sailing ship Spray, which was built by Mr. Moody of Margaretsville in 1901.
• The famous solo voyage around the world made by Captain Joshua Slocum, who sailed on the Spray in 1895-1898.
• The record-breaking enlistment of over 10% of the community's population during World War I.

Current Status Continued

Today, the Margaretsville Lighthouse remains an iconic symbol of maritime history and a popular destination for visitors from around the world.