Peters Island Light

Peters Island Lighthouse, located in Nova Scotia’s Grand Passage between Brier Island and Long Island, has been a prominent symbol of maritime navigation and local heritage since its establishment in 1850. Initially, the area was served by Brier Island Lighthouse, completed in 1809. In response to petitions from local residents in the 1840s, the Nova Scotia government allocated funds for a new lighthouse at the southern entrance of Grand Passage. The first structure, a small white building with twin beacons, was replaced by the current wooden octagonal tower in 1909, built by W. Brooks of Digby. This design included a circular gallery deck and a fifth-order, 360° Chance lens, and it stood as a critical aid for navigating the challenging tides of the Bay of Fundy.

The lighthouse, 13.4 meters tall, became known for its distinctive architecture and was a significant landmark for mariners and local communities. However, by 2014, its condition had deteriorated severely, leading to its decommissioning. The original light was replaced with temporary green flashing lights on a metal tower, and by 2016, the Canadian Coast Guard had installed a new skeletal tower with a flashing green light on a concrete foundation.

In response to its declining state, the SAIL2 (Save An Island Lighthouse) association was formed in 2015 to lead restoration efforts. The group plans to recruit volunteer craftsmen through a cross-Canada competition to undertake the restoration, addressing challenges such as finding skilled workers and transporting materials. The Peters Island Lighthouse was designated a heritage site under Canada’s Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act in December 2021, reflecting its historical and architectural value.

Despite its current state, the lighthouse remains a cherished icon for local communities and visitors. It features prominently in the maritime culture of the region, with its silhouette providing a backdrop for local events, including the festive departure of lobster boats. Nearby, a rock cairn honors Captain Joshua Slocum, the first person to sail solo around the world, linking the lighthouse to broader maritime heritage.

This light is in current need of urgent structural work to stabilise the building itself as well as the light platform which is in a precarious position.

A similar project was recently completed to save the Swallowtail Lighthouse in Grand Manan (CBC News, opens in new tab), just across the Bay of Fundy. What is needed are funds to pay for the expertise and materials, but unlike the Grand Manan project, Peters Island may not survive another two years! So donate now!

• Peters Island Lighthouse (Islandshistory.com)
• Peter Island Lighthouse (Parks Canada)
• Peter Island Lighthouse (Nova Scotia Lighthouse Preservation Society)
• Peter Island Lighthouse (lighthousefriends.com)