Lighthouses have played a critical role in maritime navigation for centuries. The way they function has changed a great deal over the years, moving from lighthouse keepers and manual work to automated lights. Lighthouse keepers, also known as “wickies,” have historically endured extreme and often life-threatening conditions before the days of automation. The Smalls Lighthouse … Continue reading The Dangers of Lighthouse Keeping
Introduction to Cape Wrath Lighthouse The Cape Wrath Lighthouse is perched on Scotland’s most northwesterly extremity, amidst the wild Scottish Highlands. Its isolated situation makes it quite the adventure to get there, and it has a history intertwined with the legacy of the famed Stevenson family, eminent in lighthouse construction in Scotland. History of Cape … Continue reading Another of the Stevenson’s Scottish Masterpieces: Cape Wrath Lighthouse
This week’s lighthouse video is about Eddystone lighthouses and their tumultuous history! There have been four towers around the Eddystone rocks, each an absolute beauty. Enjoy, Lighthouse Explorer! Continue reading Kidnappings & epic fires… the history of the Eddystone Lighthouses
Canada has the longest coastline of any country in the world, and more lakes than all of them combined! Therefore, it makes sense as to why there are over 750 lighthouses scattered all over the country. Here’s the podcast episode, in case you prefer listening to reading: Surplus Lighthouses In Canada, they are often transferred … Continue reading An introduction to Canadian lighthouses
History of the Lighthouse This gorgeous lighthouse was first lit on the 15th of February 1826. It was designed by Joseph Nelson, who then went on to oversee the build. It was originally named ‘Outer Farne’ lighthouse, and it’s best known for the daring rescue of nine shipwrecked sailors by Grace and William Darling. Grace … Continue reading Grace Darling & Longstone Lighthouse
Last week, I was on an epic tour of ten lighthouses up in Scotland. This is only approximately one twentieth of Scottish lighthouses but alas, I will just have to go back at another point in time. This roadtrip began at St Abb’s Head on the Scottish border, and concluded at Turnberry Lighthouse. Sit back, … Continue reading The Great Scottish Lighthouse Tour of September 2023!
Hello Lighthouse Explorer! I’m currently writing this from within one of the lighthouse keeper cottages at Strathy Point Lighthouse. It is phenomenally beautiful, and would take the breath of even the most jaded lighthouse sceptic. This visit is part of my great tour of Scottish lighthouses this week! I won’t be able to visit every … Continue reading The Ongoing Scottish Lighthouse Tour
History The original Whaleback Light was built on a brand-new constructed pier in 1829 for a combined cost of $19,960. It had issues with its structural integrity from the outset. The first problem came with leaks developing, after a few high seas went over the TOP of the lighthouse! The keeper at the time struggled … Continue reading Captain Walter S. Ames, a HERO: Whaleback Light, Portsmouth Harbor, USA
Situated on the northern point of the isle of Unst in the Shetlands, Muckle Flugga Lighthouse is the most northerly lighthouse in Britain. Nearer to Bergen in Norway than to Aberdeen, Muckle Flugga was established in 1854. A bit of history It was designed and built by Thomas and David Stevenson, the father and uncle … Continue reading Most northerly lighthouse in Britain – Muckle Flugga, Scotland
Yesterday’s podcast episode featured the oldest lighthouse in South Carolina: North Island Lighthouse. For over two centuries, mariners bobbing past Winyah Bay and the Seaport of Georgetown have encountered this steadfast landmark. It’s known both as the North Island Lighthouse (as it sits on the North island rather than the South), and the Georgetown Light … Continue reading North Island Lighthouse, South Carolina, USA
Lighthouse Explorers 