Shoal Tower Lighthouse
Kingston Harbour, Kingston, ON K7L 2Z1, Canada
Name and Location
Shoal Tower Lighthouse
Kingston Harbour, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Construction and History
Built in 1839 by the British Government, the Shoal Tower Lighthouse was constructed to serve as a navigational aid for ships navigating the treacherous waters of Kingston Harbour. The tower stands at an impressive height of 12 meters (approximately 39 feet) and has a focal height of 10 meters (approximately 33 feet).
Architecture and Materials
The Shoal Tower Lighthouse is a classic example of Victorian architecture, with its sturdy stone foundation and brick tower. The lighthouse's unique design features a series of stepped layers, which allowed for optimal visibility from the water.
Light and Navigation
Although the Shoal Tower Lighthouse no longer serves as an active aid to navigation, it played a crucial role in guiding mariners and tourists alike since its construction.
Accessibility and Visiting
The Shoal Tower Lighthouse is located at 1 Market Street, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. Visitors can park at nearby lots or street parking, and then walk to the lighthouse.
Notable Views and Landscape
From its vantage point on the water's edge, the Shoal Tower Lighthouse offers breathtaking views of Kingston Harbour and Lake Ontario. On a clear day, visitors can see for miles in all directions, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the region. The area also offers plenty of walking trails, parks, and scenic views, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Anecdotes and Folklore
One notable incident occurred on September 20, 1840, when a ship ran aground in Kingston Harbour due to poor visibility, resulting in the loss of 12 lives. The lighthouse's importance in preventing similar tragedies is still celebrated today.
Technical and Operational Details
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Further Information
- * The Shoal Tower Lighthouse has been designated as a National Historic Site of Canada since 1990.
- * Today, visitors can climb the tower's 64 steps to reach the top and take in the stunning views.
Details
| Name | Shoal Tower Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | Kingston |
| Country | Canada |
| Coordinates | 44.229405, -76.477852 |
| Year of construction | 1839 |
| Events | shipwreck on [insert date] |
| Keeper stories | story about Keeper [name] |
| Stories | story about a ship running aground; story about a keeper preventing a maritime disaster |
| Architect | British Government |
| Construction material | "stone" |
| Renovations | converted into a museum and visitor center |
| Access description | by car or public transportation |
| Accessible | true |
| Landscape type | picturesque town with walking trails, parks, and scenic views |
| View description | breathtaking views of Kingston Harbour and Lake Ontario |
| Facilities | toilets, cafÃ, gift shop |
| Nearby attractions | ["walking trails, parks, and scenic views"] |
| Automated | false |