Miscou Island Lighthouse
New Brunswick
Miscou Island Lighthouse stands prominently at the northeastern tip of Miscou Island, marking the entrance to Chaleur Bay in New Brunswick, Canada. Constructed in 1856 by James Murray of Newcastle, it was established to prevent frequent shipwrecks in the area. The lighthouse is 24.3 metres tall and features a third-order Fresnel lens originally shipped from England and installed under the supervision of William Hay. It emits a unique green flash every five seconds from a focal height of 14 metres, aiding maritime navigation. The lighthouse is a designated federal Heritage Building and remains operational under the Canadian Coast Guard, who also maintain the surrounding land. In 2009, visitor amenities including parking, washrooms, a picnic area, and a viewing deck were added, making it accessible to the public. Historically, smoke conductors were installed in 1860 to clear smoke from the lantern room, and a steam fog whistle building was added in 1874 to warn ships during foggy conditions. The structure was relocated 200 feet inland in 1946 to protect it from coastal erosion. Today, it stands as both a functional navigational aid and a cherished historic attraction.
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Tip: Visit during the summer months for the best weather and full access to amenities like picnic areas and viewing decks. Advance planning for parking is recommended during peak tourist season. The lighthouse is publicly accessible and offers educational insights into maritime history. No specific ticket purchase is required, but donations to maintenance efforts are appreciated.
Interesting facts
- •The lighthouse emits a unique green flash every five seconds, a rare characteristic among lighthouses.
- •Its original third-order Fresnel lens was shipped from England and installed under the supervision of William Hay, keeper of another northern New Brunswick lighthouse.
- •In 2009, modern visitor facilities including a parking area, washrooms, picnic area, and viewing deck were added to enhance the public experience.
- •The lighthouse was physically relocated 200 feet inland in 1946 to protect it from coastal erosion.
History
Built in 1856 to reduce frequent shipwrecks near Miscou Island, the lighthouse was constructed by James Murray of Newcastle.
In 1860, smoke conductors were installed to improve lantern room conditions.
A steam fog whistle building was added in 1874 to aid navigation in fog.
The lighthouse was moved 200 feet inland in 1946 to protect it from coastal erosion.
It remains operational and is maintained by the Canadian Coast Guard as a federal Heritage Building.
Place Guide
The Lighthouse Tower1856
A 24.3-metre tall tower constructed in 1856 featuring a third-order Fresnel lens that emits a green flash every five seconds to guide ships safely.
Fog Whistle Building1874
Built in 1874, this building housed a steam fog whistle that produced 5-second blasts separated by 25 seconds of silence to warn ships during foggy conditions.
Visitor Amenities2009
Added in 2009, facilities include a parking area, washrooms, picnic area, and a viewing deck surrounding the lighthouse, enhancing visitor comfort and experience.
