The Low Point Lighthouse, also known as Flat Point Lighthouse, was first built in 1885 on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. It served as a vital navigation aid in the busy waters of the Cabot Strait. Standing 20 meters (66 feet) tall, its distinctive white tower with a red top originally featured a kerosene lantern, which was later upgraded to electric power by the Canadian Coast Guard.
Throughout its history, the lighthouse has guided numerous vessels along the coast, and is a cultural landmark representing Cape Breton's maritime heritage. The lighthouse is a popular destination for visitors, offering scenic views that transport you to a time past. The preservation of the lighthouse is part of ongoing efforts by the Low Point Lighthouse Society to save this vital landmark.
About the Lighthouse
1954
Courtesy Library and Archives Canada
The Original Structure
The first lighthouse (pictured below) was built out of wood at Flat Point, now more commonly referred to as Low Point, in 1832. Its purpose was to aid vessels entering the Sydney Harbour.
By 1878, the lighthouse underwent major upgrades due to deterioration, including a structurally reinforced tower and a new twelve-sided iron lantern that accommodated 13 burners with individual reflectors. This marked a significant improvement in the station’s visibility and reliability. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the lighthouse also served as a signal station and was later equipped with a steam foghorn in 1903. Erosion control became an ongoing issue, leading to substantial investment in protective works.
In 1938, the aging wooden tower was replaced by the current concrete structure, but the original iron lantern—crafted by Chance Brothers—was preserved and remains in use today, making it a rare surviving feature of its era.
1922
Courtesy Library and Archives Canada
Visit the Lighthouse
56 Lighthouse Rd, New Victoria, N.S., B1H 5B4
Please note that the pathway to the lighthouse is currently not wheelchair accessible.
