The famous Yarmouth Light at Cape Forchu was lit in 1840 to guide sailing vessels into this shipbuilding town. At its peak in the late nineteenth century, Yarmouth was one of the leading ship owning ports in Canada, trading timber and salt fish for West Indian molasses, salt, and rum. The current lighthouse was built in 1962, and de-staffed in 1993. It holds the distinction of being the last lighthouse in Nova Scotia to be tended by resident lightkeepers. In 1996, The Friends of the Yarmouth Light Society opened the 1912 keepers' house to visitors, and restored the station grounds. In 2000, Cape Forchu became the first lighthouse in Canada to be turned over to a local municipality through a federal transfer program. There is a small museum adn the 'Mug Up Tearoom' in the keeper's house next to the slender red-and-white striped lighthouse, and two unique gift shops on site. The 19 acres of well groomed grounds encourage you to enjoy the view and picnic. Cape Forchu is an excellent vantage point from which to view fishing boats passing in and out of busy Yarmouth Harbour.
First recipient, Craig Harding Award for Lighthouse Preservation, in 2001, with Craig Harding.
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Keepers' houses open. from Main St. Turn left at the lights by the golden horse fountain which takes you on Vancouver St. Turn left at Grove Rd, following the directional signs to the Lightstation, Turn left at HWY 304 for 2. 1 km (1.3 mi.). Keep to the left,
drive 11 km (7 mi.) to Yarmouth Bar, and continue to Cape Forchu. Welcome centre, museum, guided tours, gift shop. |
| AFFILIATE 2010 |
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Season: May 30 - September
Hours (Peak Season): 11 am - 5 pm daily. Open after hours with reservations. |
Friends of the Yarmouth Light Society
77-2 Parade Street, Suite 105Yarmouth, NS, B5A 3B3
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