 |
Cape-Henry-Lighthouse
Where History Lives
Cape-Henry-Lighthouse has long been important for the large amount of ocean-going shipping traffic for the harbors, its rivers, and shipping headed to ports on the Chesapeake Bay.
It was the first lighthouse authorized by the U.S. government, dating from 1792. It was also the first federal construction project under the Constitution, for an original contract amount of $15,200 (an additional $2,500 was required to finish the lighthouse).
In 1798, Benjamin Latrobe visited Cape Henry Lighthouse and described it as "an octangular truncated pyramid of eight sides, rising 90 feet to the light... The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse is 26 feet in diameter at its base, and 16 feet at its top.
In the 1870s, concerns about the condition and safety of the Old Lighthouse at Cape Henry led to the construction of the New Cape Henry Lighthouse (pictured to the right) in 1881, which stands 350 feet to the southeast of the original.The lighthouse was fully automated in 1983 and remains in use today.
The lighthouses are located in the city of Virginia Beach within the boundaries of Fort Story, an Army base. The Cape Henry Memorial is adjacent to the lighthouses. Some of the nearby attractions are;Virginia Beach Acquarium, Ocean Breeze Water Park and Motor World.
Directions: At First Landing State Park turn left into the west gate of Fort Story. Follow the road, which will take you between the two lighthouses.
Note to Our Tourists: The Cape Henry Lighthouse is located within Fort Story military base. To visit the lighthouse, you must pass through the security gates of Fort Story. Please call the Lighthouse before visiting as requirements for identification may change from day to day.
Telephone:(757)-422-9421
Website
get directions to Cape Henry Lighthouse
<< from Cape-Henry-Lighthouse back Home to Virginia Beach Vacations
<< from Cape Henry Lighthouse back to Virginia Beach Attractions
|
|
Please subscribe to my montly e-zine so you don't miss a thing.
|
