Lighttower

The Lighttower at King’s Cove Head is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental value.

Historical Value

The Lighttower at King’s Cove Head illustrates the theme of navigational aids in Newfoundland when it was a British colony with an economy based entirely on the sea. Its construction also illustrates the theme of growing industrialization around the turn of the 20th century.

Architectural Value

The Lighttower at King’s Cove Head is a very good example of a utilitarian structure of cast-iron construction and very good functional design. It is one of approximately 26 lighthouses of prefabricated iron and steel construction, thought to be the only surviving examples of their type in Canada. Favoured because of their inexpensive cost, ease of erection, low maintenance requirements and long-term durability, these structures reflect the desire to achieve a design that would withstand the rigours of the Newfoundland coast.

Environmental Value

The Lighttower at King’s Cove Head reinforces the character of its maritime setting and is a familiar landmark to mariners in the region.

Sources:

Joan Mattie, Six Newfoundland Lighthouse,: Green point; Heart’s Content; King’s Cove Head; Little Denier Island; North Head; Brigus; Random Head, Newfoundland, Federal Heritage Building Review Office Building Report 89-198, 89-199, 89-200, 89-201, 89-208, 89-211; Lighthouse: King’s Cove Head, Bonavista Bay, Newfoundland, Heritage Character Statement, 89-200.