Originally built
in 1898 the Cape Croker lighthouse was soon replaced in 1902 with
the present octagonal lighthouse constructed of reinforced concrete,
the first of its kind in the area. It was also the first to boast
an electrically operated light and foghorn. From top to bottom it
measures 18 metres (53 feet), with a Fresnel lens imported from France,
casting a light over 15 miles into Georgian Bay. Cape Croker is home
to the Chippewas of Nawash. The lighthouse is not available for tours
but can be photographed. History
The first lighthouse on the site, a wooden structure, was built in
1898 at the northern entrance to Colpoy's Bay, 1-1/2 miles southeast
of Cape Croker. Weights were used to rotate the light. A 5-bedroom
house was home to the lightkeeper and his family.
The last lightkeeper signed the log book for the last time in 1986,
leaving the lighthouse unmanned.
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