Lighthouse

The Lighthouse at Cap d’Espoir is part of a lightstation located on the edge of the Gaspé coastline. The classically designed, reinforced-concrete lighthouse is a graceful and picturesque structure. Its basic composition consists of an octagonal tower with a moulded base and flared cornice. The tower supports a gallery platform and multi-sided red metal lantern topped by a decorative funnel hood and ventilator. Its recessed door and windows, which are recessed at the bottom and covered with a pedimented cap, add a decorative touch to the functional structure. The designation is confined to the footprint of the building.

The Lighthouse is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental value.

Historical Value

The Lighthouse is one of several lighthouses situated along the Gaspé coast associated with the upgrading of Canada’s navigational system during the 1930s. The concrete structure was built to replace an earlier wooden tower at the light station.

Architectural Value

The Lighthouse is valued for its good aesthetic design and is a representative example of a classically designed tower with base, column and capital. The octagonal plan provides much of the grace and aesthetic appeal of the structure. Its basic composition is complimented by simple classical detailing that displays good craftsmanship. The lighthouse is also valued for its simple but very good functional design in reinforced concrete.

Environmental Value

The Lighthouse reinforces the present picturesque maritime character of its lightstation setting. It is a familiar landmark in the area.

Sources: Martha Phemister, Cap d’Espoir Lighthouse, Village de Cap d’Espoir, Gaspé Region, Québec, Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office, Building Report, 87-095; Cap d’Espoir Lighthouse, Cap d’Espoir, Gaspé Region, Québec, Heritage Character Statement, 87-095.

The character-defining elements of the Lighthouse should be respected.

Its good aesthetic design, very good functional design and good craftsmanship and materials, for example:

- the medium-height, tapered octagonal structure with a moulded base and flared cornice;

- the reinforced concrete construction;

- the gallery platform with a painted-metal guardrail and a multi-sided red metal lantern, topped by a decorative funned hood and ventilator;

- the pedimented entranceway and recessed door;

- the multi-pane windows, recessed at the bottom, and covered with a pedimented cap to shed water;

- the red and white colour scheme.

The manner in which the Lighthouse reinforces the present picturesque maritime character of its lightstation setting and is a familiar landmark, as evidenced by:

- its overall attractive scale, massing, design and materials, which harmonize with its associated building and coastal surroundings;

- its visible role as a seacoast marker.