In 1792 Cape Henry was erected. It was essential for the safe navigation of ships entering Chesapeake Bay. In 1872 a department inspector came upon cracks on six of the eight walls; two of them serious. A new lighthouse was recommended as the existing tower was “in danger of being thrown down by some heavy gale”.
A new lighthouse was erected and in use by 1881. The structure’s walls were constructed of cast iron. The lighthouse was furnished with a radio beacon in 1923. In 1996 a Differential Positioning System was installed.
The Virginia Antiquities maintains the old lighthouse for tourists and is requesting control of the new one since there was talk of the Coast Guard demolishing the lighthouse.
The replica of Cape Henry is located at the head of site four launch ramps at Winsor Beach State Park. The lighthouse is made out of metal; it is the 26th built by the Lighthouse Club. It was erected in December 2017.
Cape Henry Lighthouse Replica
Dedicated on December 12, 2017
Sponsored by: Dale and Dian Gibson
Building Craftsmen: Club Members
GPS: 34º 28′ 39.60″ N -114º 21′ 17.80″ W
Beacon: Red – Flash: 20 times per minute.
Location: Winsor Beach State Park