After 10 years and nearly $700,000 in grants and individual donations, the Presqu’ile Point Lighthouse has been restored and its red cupola installed, ready for the next 200 years.
This project started when Norman Bassman approached the local Rotary Club of Brighton for support for this project and the fundraising effort began in 2013 with the formation of the Presqu’ile Point Lighthouse Preservation Society (PPLPS).
The PPLPS has raised almost $700,000 and as a result of their volunteer efforts, this historic lighthouse will remain structurally sound and will be enjoyed by both residents and visitors to the area for years to come.
The Lighthouse Preservation Society’s Dave Sharp told us he’s very happy to report, they’re done.
Work was done to ensure that the foundation is sound, and all the shingles and siding have been replaced. After the environmental assessment was completed by Ontario Parks, the new cupola which is the glass and metal structure that fits around the lantern at the top of the lighthouse was installed in September 2023.
According to Sharp, feedback has been very positive.
The lighthouse is on the eastern point of the Presqu’ile peninsula, formerly known as Gibson’s Point, in Presqu’ile Provincial Park. It was originally designed by an engineer named Nichol Hugh Baird who made the 69-foot octagonal stone tower tapering to a pronounced flare at the top with a moulded cornice. The Gothic doorway added to its stately appearance. Originally an 8-sided lantern house (cupola) was perched at the top.
Due to water and the weather, the outside of the lighthouse started to crumble with exposure to the elements. In 1894, it was sheathed in a wood frame and then, covered with cedar shakes. The light was converted to electricity from oil in 1935 and the attractive top cupola was removed by 1965 giving the lighthouse its current profile.
Sharp told us they put the first deposit into the bank in May of 2023, and a decade later, the results are ready to be enjoyed.
A popular destination for visitors of Presqu’ile Provincial Park, the lighthouse is again picture perfect, structurally sound and has its commanding presence again.
“The lighthouse is still used by many of those on the water to find their way safely home to Brighton,” said Dave Sharp – Chair of the PPLPS. “It’s such an asset to the park and visitors love to learn about its history, read the signs and visit the centre. I recommend that you visit it at dusk to see the visual effect of the new cupola.”
If you are new to the area, or a long-time resident, be sure to visit Presqu’ile Provincial Park to see the renovated lighthouse and to see the crowning glory, the red cupola.
Written by Alicia Vandine
