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Toronto Harbour Light

Lighthouse Escape 2

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Toronto Harbour Light (Toronto)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Toronto Harbour Light

The Toronto Harbour Light is a historic lighthouse located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, in Toronto, Canada.

History

  • The tower was constructed in 1905 as part of a comprehensive system to aid navigation in the harbour.
  • The structure was designed by architect John Thomas Lowry.

The lighthouse emits a fixed red light, visible up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometres) out to sea. The light pattern is a steady flash every two seconds.

Current Status

  • The Toronto Harbour Light is currently an inactive aid to navigation, having been automated in the mid-20th century.
  • However, it has been preserved as a historic landmark and is now operated by the City of Toronto as a museum.

Location and Accessibility

  • The lighthouse is located at Lighthouse Escape 2, on the north shore of Lake Ontario, in Toronto, Canada.
  • The site is easily accessible via road or public transportation, with several nearby parking areas available.

Heritage Status

The Toronto Harbour Light has been designated as a historic landmark by the City of Toronto and is listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places.

Notable Historical Events

  • During World War II, the lighthouse played an important role in the harbour's military operations.
  • The tower was used to guide Allied ships into the harbour, and its light was also used to signal enemy vessels away from the area.

Architecture and Construction

The lighthouse stands at a height of 12 metres (39 feet) above the waterline, with a focal height of approximately 25 metres (82 feet). It is built from stone and features a distinctive square tower with a lantern room at the top.

Light Characteristics

The Toronto Harbour Light emits a fixed red light.

Strong Emphasis

Automated in the mid-20th century

Emphasized Title

Toronto Harbour Light

Details

NameToronto Harbour Light
CityToronto
CountryCanada
Coordinates43.61354, -79.343414
ArchitectJohn Thomas Lowry
Current usemuseum
Accessibletrue