Cape Spear Lighthouse (New) - August, 1998
The original lighthouse at Cape Spear, the first in Newfoundland, was built in 1835. It was replaced by the current concrete structure in 1955.
I have seen many entries in books or slide shows describing this as the oldest lighthouse in Newfoundland, but to set the record straight, this is actually one of the newest lighthouse in Newfoundland. To view the oldest, turn 180 degrees from the viewpoint seen here, and walk about 200 meters up the hill.
I visited this lighthouse in 1988, and again in 1998. The latter visit was a more interesting one for me. It seems that my interest in lighthouse intensifies with time, and I actually looked forward to visiting Cape Spear with great excitement. During our two hours here, I ran from one lighthouse to the other photographing and experiencing them. The new lighthouse is not open to the public, but the old one is open for guided tours.
To reach Cape Spear from St. John's, start from the foot of Leslie Street, cross to the Southside of the harbour and follow the signs to Cape Spear National Historic Site. The drive takes about 20-30 minutes. There is ample parking at the site. Both lighthouses are accessible by a wooden stairway from the parking lot. While you are there, you should take the time to follow some of the other trails, especially the one that takes you to the actual most easterly point in North America.
Newfoundland Lighthouses - Lorne's Lighthouses
Comments to: Lorne Hull
Last updated: 09 Oct 1999
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