Name and Location

The Tracadie-Sheila Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Tracadie-Sheila, New Brunswick, Canada, situated on the coast of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Construction and History

The Tracadie-Sheila Lighthouse was constructed in 1873 to guide mariners through the treacherous waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The lighthouse was designed by architect Thomas Fullerton and built by contractor J.J. McCarthy. Initially, the tower stood at a height of 45 feet (13.7 meters), but it was later raised to its current height of 65 feet (19.8 meters) in 1909.

Architecture and Materials

The Tracadie-Sheila Lighthouse is a typical example of a Canadian lighthouse design, featuring a square tower with a pyramidal roof and a distinctive red and white color scheme. The tower is surrounded by a dwelling for the lightkeeper and his family.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse was originally lit in 1874 by a kerosene lamp. In 1953, the lighthouse was converted to electric lighting, and in 1992, it was automated, eliminating the need for a lightkeeper on site. Today, the lighthouse is equipped with modern navigation aids, including a rotating beam of light that can be seen from 13 miles (21 kilometers) out to sea.

Accessibility and Visiting

No information available.

Notable Views and Landscape

No information available.

Anecdotes and Folklore

The Tracadie-Sheila Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses on the Canadian coast. The original foghorn, installed in 1874, was replaced with a new one in 1962. The lighthouse has been featured in several books and documentaries about maritime history.

Technical and Operational Details

The Tracadie-Sheila Lighthouse is maintained by the Canadian Coast Guard, which ensures that the beacon remains operational and the surrounding structures are well-maintained.

Further Information

In recent years, concerns about the structural integrity of the Tracadie-Sheila Lighthouse have led to conservation efforts aimed at preserving this important piece of maritime history. The lighthouse was designated a Heritage Railway Station in 1991, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.