Built in 1855, Fort Point Lighthouse is the fourth oldest surviving Lighthouse in Nova Scotia and is valued as a rare surviving example of pre-Confederation lighthouses, for the role it played in the history of Liverpool, and because the lighthouse and the site are integral to the historical character of the town.
Since the 18th century, the Fort Point Lighthouse has hosted a signal station and during the American Revolution, a fort with blockhouse was erected and armed with cannons to protect the harbour from privateers. One of the lightkeeper’s duties was to operate a hand-cranked foghorn in reply to foghorn signals from incoming vessels as they entered into the harbour. A hand-cranked foghorn is still located within the lighthouse today.
Today, the lighthouse is open to visitors seasonally while the park surrounding this Provincial Heritage Property is open year-round offering picnic tables, interpretive panels, gift shop and a beautiful view of Liverpool Harbour and the Coffin Island lighthouse. Be sure to explore the lighthouse and to crank the foghorn!
