Point Prim Lighthouse
Prince Edward Island
Point Prim Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Prince Edward Island, Canada, notable for its unique circular brick construction, one of only two such lighthouses in the country. Standing 18.5 metres tall, it guides mariners near the southern coast of the island. The lighthouse features an adjacent keeper's cottage, modest in size, reflecting the solitary life of the lighthouse keepers who maintained the light through its history. Since its establishment in the 19th century, there have been 13 keepers, each contributing to its operation. The lighthouse is now owned and maintained by the Point Prim Lighthouse Society, a non-profit community organization dedicated to its preservation. Visitors can explore the grounds year-round, with the tower accessible during the summer season through guided tours. The site offers a glimpse into maritime heritage and provides picturesque views of the surrounding coastline, making it a valued cultural and tourist attraction on Prince Edward Island.
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Tip: Visit between May and October for full access, with the lighthouse open daily during summer months. Guided tours are included with admission, so purchasing tickets on-site or in advance is recommended. The grounds are accessible year-round for free exploration. Families with children can benefit from discounted admission rates, and children under five enter for free.
Interesting facts
- •Point Prim Lighthouse is one of only two circular brick lighthouses in Canada, the other being Fisgard Lighthouse in British Columbia.
- •The lighthouse tower is 18.5 metres (60.7 feet) tall from foundation to weathervane.
- •There have been 13 lighthouse keepers since it was first lit.
- •The keeper's cottage is notably small, typically housing only the keeper, with family visits during summer.
- •The Point Prim Lighthouse Society, a volunteer-run non-profit, manages and maintains the lighthouse and grounds.
History
The Point Prim Lighthouse was established in the 19th century and has been operational since then, serving as a navigational aid on Prince Edward Island.
Over its history, it has had 13 different keepers who managed the light and maintained the site.
The lighthouse's circular brick design is distinctive and rare in Canada, shared only with Fisgard Lighthouse in British Columbia.
In recent years, the site has been preserved and operated by a local non-profit organization, ensuring its maintenance and public accessibility.
Place Guide
Lighthouse Tower19th century
The 18.5-metre tall circular brick tower is the centerpiece of the site, offering visitors a chance to climb and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and sea. Its unique architecture distinguishes it from most Canadian lighthouses.
Keeper's Cottage19th century
Adjacent to the tower, this modest-sized brick cottage housed the lighthouse keeper, typically living alone due to its small dimensions. During summer months, the keeper's family often stayed here, reflecting the isolated yet vital role of lighthouse keepers.
Contact
Phone: (902) 659-2768