Range Lights at SouthamptonMarine navigation was an integral part of daily life in the historic coastal town of Southampton. The Imperial Tower on Chantry Island warned ships of the surrounding dangers, while 3 smaller unmanned “Range Lights” guided mariners safely into the harbour.Built in 1903, the front and back range lights on the Saugeen River are lined up by sailors entering the harbour, then staying on course until the river channel is reached. Front Range LightIn the 1800s, the front light at the river's mouth was originally a lantern attached to a mast fastened to a crib about 50' from the outer deck of the pier. It was later replaced by a square tapered wooden building, painted white with a red top. Electrically operated, it is mounted on the end of the pier and is unmanned. A working fog horn adds a soulful, romantic touch to foggy shoreline weather. At one time, the automated fog horn came on whenever fog rolled in from the lake. Now it is operated by boaters with a signal from their marine radios. Saugeen River LightThe back range light started its life as a green lantern raised up 45' above the water on a tall mast. It hung on the land opposite to the present location of ...continue >>>
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Getting to the Lighthouse
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