Name and Location

The Southwest Head Lighthouse is located on Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick, Canada. It stands at an elevation of 48 meters (157 feet) and has guided mariners through the treacherous waters of the Bay of Fundy since its construction in 1857.

Construction and History

The Southwest Head Lighthouse was built in 1857 as one of the earliest lighthouses on Grand Manan Island. Its fog signal, comprising two blasts every 15 seconds, serves as an essential warning to mariners navigating through foggy conditions.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture, with a cylindrical tower constructed from sandstone and granite. The tower's height, including the lantern room, reaches an impressive 38 meters (125 feet), while the focal height, measured from sea level, stands at approximately 24 meters (79 feet).

Light and Navigation

The Southwest Head Lighthouse is equipped with a powerful white light that flashes every 10 seconds, illuminating the surrounding waters for a distance of approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles). This beacon serves as an essential aid to navigation for mariners traversing the challenging maritime environment of the Bay of Fundy.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Southwest Head Lighthouse via Route 776 Highway on Grand Manan Island. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline, as well as educational exhibits and guided tours. Visitors are advised to contact the local authorities for specific information on opening hours, entrance fees, and guided tour schedules.

Notable Views and Landscape

The Southwest Head Lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse's light characteristics include a powerful white light that flashes every 10 seconds, illuminating the surrounding waters for a distance of approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles).

Further Information

For further information on the Southwest Head Lighthouse, please consult local maritime authorities, historical records, or online resources such as the Government of Canada's CanVec-7.0 database.