Name and Location

The Scarborough Lighthouse is located at 20 Fort Street, Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago.

2. Construction and History

The Scarborough Lighthouse was constructed in 1855 during the British colonial era as part of a series of beacons built along the southern coast of Trinidad and Tobago. Initially, it stood at an impressive height of 82 feet (25 meters) above sea level, with a focal plane of approximately 130 feet (40 meters).

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse's architecture is characterized by a simple yet functional design, typical of British colonial-era structures. Its tower is built from sturdy masonry, providing a solid foundation for the lantern room and the light itself.

4. Light and Navigation

Until its automation in the mid-20th century, the Scarborough Lighthouse featured a fixed white light, visible at a range of approximately 18 nautical miles (33 kilometers). The light's characteristic was Fl (3) W. 15s, indicating a three-second flash every 15 seconds.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, although there is no public entrance or guided tours available at present. For those interested in visiting the Scarborough Lighthouse, please note that there is no official opening hour or entrance fee.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands atop a hill overlooking the picturesque town of Scarborough, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of the Caribbean Sea.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

According to local accounts, former lighthouse keepers would often share stories of their experiences and the challenges they faced while maintaining the beacon. In 1884, the Scarborough Lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding the HMS Blazer, a British warship, through a period of intense storms.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was automated in 1964, reducing the need for human intervention. Today, it serves as a passive aid to navigation, providing visual support for mariners in the region. The lighthouse falls under the jurisdiction of the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard, which is responsible for maintaining the site's integrity.

9. Further Information

For further reading on the Scarborough Lighthouse, please refer to its entry on Wikipedia: unknown.