Shag Head Lighthouse

The Shag Head Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Grand Manan Island, off the coast of New Brunswick, Canada.

History

• Its construction began in 1858 and was completed in 1860.
• The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation, guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Gulf of Maine.

The lighthouse was constructed using local granite and cast iron materials.

Architecture

• The tower's architectural style is characteristic of mid-19th-century lighthouses, with a cylindrical shape and a square-based foundation.
• The exterior is clad in white-painted stonework, while the lantern room features a distinctive red roof.

Light Characteristics

• The Shag Head Lighthouse is equipped with a first-order Fresnel lens, which projects a beam of light approximately 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) out to sea.
• The lighthouse operates on an alternating flash pattern, emitting a beam that can be seen from a distance of several miles.

Current Status

The Shag Head Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the mid-20th century.

Today, the lighthouse is no longer used as a primary navigational aid but continues to serve as a historic landmark and tourist attraction.

Location and Accessibility

• The Shag Head Lighthouse is situated on Route 776, near the town of Grand Manan Parish, on Grand Manan Island.
• Visitors can explore the lighthouse by guided tour or self-guided visit.
• However, due to its remote location and fragile condition, visitors are required to follow strict guidelines to ensure the preservation of this historic structure.

Heritage Status

The Shag Head Lighthouse has been designated as a National Historic Site of Canada, recognizing its importance in Canadian maritime history and its well-preserved state.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Shag Head Lighthouse played a significant role in the Allied war effort.
• In 1993, the lighthouse underwent extensive restoration work to repair damage caused by years of exposure to the elements.