Although it is not a lighthouse, the Reed Point light was an aid to navigation for ships entering Saint John harbour. A plaque at the site gives the following information: "1842 - A navigational signal lamp was erected on this site; 1847 - A single gas lamp was erected by the Saint John Gas Co. and dedicated to the habour pilots of Saint John; 1848 -The Saint John Gas Co. commissioned Alexander Campbell to replace the single lamp with three lamps on a trident; 1967 - The restoration of the "Three Lamps" was undertaken by H.S. Gregory & Sons Ltd and the Saint John Iron Works Ltd; On October 3, 1967 the "Three Lamps" were rededicated to the Sint John Harbour Pilots and this plaque erected in memory of the men who lost their lives in the sinking of pilot boat #6 which was cut in two on January 14, 1957 by SS Fort Avalon while on station in thick vapor. Tempature 22 degrees below zero. All Hands Lost." The light is also known locally as the "Three Sisters" light and there is differing opinion on the origin of that name. Some say it is from faithful sisters who waited on that spot waiting for their men to return from the sea. Others say it is from three stars in the Northern Constellation "Perseus". Whatever the origin, the light is a local icon and worth a visit. Photos taken in March 2012.
The lamp post was restored again starting at the end of 2008 and completed early in 2009
ReplyDeleteThanks Amber, Cheers, Neal
DeleteThe lamp was not "restored". If so, that would mean the lamps would again have glass and not "plastic" panes. Also, the lamps originally had both red and green panels. There are only red panels now. The lamps would be more correctly be described as having been "changed", "fixed up", or "altered".
ReplyDeleteI have in my write up quoted the plaque at the light which indicated "restoration" in 1967.
DeleteI am from NB (Sussex) and lived in SJ for 3 years. I never knew this light existed! My Grandfather was the lighthouse keeper on partridge Island. I have always wanted to clean the Island up and reapair the cemetary which is in a very sorry condition. It is a strong part of our heritage. I live in the USA as this is where my work has brought me, but, someday I want to make that my last and BEST project!
ReplyDeleteThanks for leaving the comment. I wish you luck with your quest. My understanding is that you need special permission from the Canada Coast Guard to go on the island. I only have been able to get distant photos from the shore when I have visited St. John's. My daughter lives in Grand Bay/Westfield so I visit the area occasionally. Cheers.
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