Managing Organization: Canadian Coast Guard
Notes: Whether Machias Seal Island is owned by Canada or the U.S. is a subject of dispute. This is the only lighthouse in Atlantic Canada that is still fully staffed. There are two keepers who take 28-day shifts. The island is an important nesting site for puffins and other seabirds. Tower Height: 60 Height of Focal Plane: 83 Characteristic and Range: White flash every three seconds, visible for 17 nautical miles. Description of Tower: White, octagonal concrete tower, red lantern.
This light is operational
Earlier Towers? 1832: Twin lighthouses. Date Established: 1832 Date Present Tower Built: 1915 Fog Signal: Automated horn. Characteristic: Blast 3s; silent 3s; blast 3s; silent 51s. Current Use: Active aid to navigation. Open To Public? Grounds only. Directions: There are two companies running birdwatching cruises to Machias Seal Island from Maine, and one from Grand Manan. Captain Andrew Patterson runs trips from Cutler, Maine; (website: www.boldcoast.com ) call 207-259-4484 or email info@boldcoast.com for information. Sea Watch Tours of Grand Manan also offers trips to the island. Call 506-662-8552 or 1-877-662-8552, or email puffinsandwhales@gmail.com. Keepers: John Conley (1832-1844, died in service), Donald Daggett (1915-?), Harvey Benson (c. 1940s), Angus Smiley (c. 1993). Paul Cranford (c. 1990-1998), Rick Daley (c. 1998), Ralph Eldridge (c. 1998), Barry Bagley (c. 1998)
|