McNab Point Range Light Restoration

 

Another Success in Progress

Range Light Stripped of Aluminum Siding

The least known of Southampton's four Lighthouses is the McNab Point Range Light that was used to guide Mariners thru 'The Gap' and into the Harbour of Refuge that sheltered them from storms.  It lined up with a light on the end of the gap so that the narrow opening could be passed.  Can you imagine doing that in a gale and in the dark? Some did not make it like the Erie Stewart below.

Erie Stewart at 'The Gap' with Diver John Veber

The McNab Point light has been neglected for a very long time.  It was originally covered with cedar shakes and then the Coast Guard decided to sheath it in Aluminum to save painting and repair costs.  That trapped the moisture and created rot.  In the 'before' picture you can see the power lines coming into the Light to service the radio beacon which was a much later addition.

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Range Light a Few Days Ago

Some years ago local residents contacted the Marine Heritage Society and asked them to clear the brush from around the Light.  The people involved went further.  When the Light was investigated, it was found that ventilation was inhibited by bird nests in the Lantern Room.  Clearing that and doing some minor painting created an interest in a solar powered private aid to navigation that would again help night time passage through the gap and be fun for the group to do.

Working with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Town of Saugeen Shores work is progressing to restore the McNab Point Range Light to its original state with cedar shakes and window on the second floor visible again.

To date the foundation has been restored and the add-on radio signal part of the Lighthouse removed.  This really is another example of Marine Heritage's relentless work efforts over the past 10 years to restore "The Oldest Port on the Bruce Coast". 

For more go to www.chantryisland.com and the presentation before Council of the Marine Heritage Society entitled "Marine Heritage Society and Saugeen Shores sign 5 year lease (more)"