Fog signal at Chebucto Head Lighthouse (NS) is silenced, sparking a debate
The silencing this year of a familiar mournful howl at the mouth of Halifax Harbor has ignited a debate about Atlantic Canada’s dwindling number of foghorns. For over 120 years, the foghorn at the Chebucto Head lighthouse has bleated a solemn warning to mariners inching through the fog. But in February, it stopped. After a coast guard technician determined it needed repairs, the agency recommended the horn be retired for good.
There are 91 foghorns active across Atlantic Canada, though another 46 have been decommissioned since 2013. The coast guard is still considering the feedback about the Chebucto Head foghorn before a final decision is made about its future.
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Cheboygan’s Front Range Lighthouse aglow with community spirit
Volunteers from the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association recently spent some time at Cheboygan’s Front Range Lighthouse getting the building decorated for the upcoming Christmas holiday.
“We’re part of the Cheboygan’s downtown community, and want to show our support,” said Mark Siegman, board president of the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association. “With the ongoing renovations inside the lighthouse, it’s time to be a good downtown neighbor, spotlighting the outside of the lighthouse as well. Next year, we’ll be in a better position to host some events.”
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Lighthouse illuminations continue at St. Augustine (FL)
Discover 21 uniquely decorated trees, each with a distinct theme, at this special after-hours event at the St. Augustine Lighthouse, which takes place on select days through Friday, January 21, 2022. Visitors may explore the Keepers’ House and grounds illuminated by lights and festive garlands, as well as a sensational view of the lighthouse at night.
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Air Sea crews remembered at Norah Head Lighthouse, Australia
From 1944 to 1947, the Royal Australian Air Force operated Air-Sea Rescue Flights in Northern Australia, New Guinea, and Borneo. The units carried out search and rescue operations, often involving the recovery of crews stranded in enemy territory.
A plaque dedicated to the Air-Sea Rescue flights was dedicated at Australia’s Norah Head Lighthouse on December 5.
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U.S. Lighthouse Society News is produced by the U.S. Lighthouse Society to support lighthouse preservation, history, education and research.
If you have items of interest to the lighthouse community and its supporters, please email them to Jeremy D’Entremont at Jeremy@uslhs.org
Jeremy D’Entremont is the author of more than 20 books and hundreds of articles on lighthouses and maritime history. He is the president and historian for the American Lighthouse Foundation and founder of Friends of Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouses, and he has lectured and narrated cruises throughout the Northeast and in other regions. He is also the producer and host of the U.S. Lighthouse Society podcast, “Light Hearted.” He can be emailed at Jeremy@uslhs.org