Cape Henry Lighthouses

On the site of the Cape Henry Lighthouse, there are actually two lighthouses. The more modern lighthouse and the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse that is a U.S. National Historic Landmark and is registered on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. After the new lighthouse was built, the structures came to be known as the New Cape Henry Lighthouse and the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse.

Both lighthouses are located within Fort Story and are part of Colonial National Historical Park, which manages the maintenance of the buildings and care of the site. To learn more about the Cape Henry Lighthouses and the hours for visiting, available discounts, go to tps.cr.nps.gov/nhl/detail.cfm?ResourceId=689&ResourceType=Structure.

Cape Henry Lighthouse History -

The Cape Henry Lighthouse boasts a history of amazing firsts. In 1792, the Virginia lighthouse became the first lighthouse the newly formed U.S. government ever authorized. The first federal construction project under the Constitution, the Cape Henry Lighthouse was budgeted at $15,200. The 90-foot-tall Lighthouse at Cape Henry began to fall into disrepair toward the latter part of In the 1870s, and a new lighthouse was built. Completed in 1881, the 350-foot tall New Cape Henry Lighthouse is located just a few hundred feet away from the original that it replaced. The Old Cape Henry, Virginia lighthouse was acquired by preservationists in 1930. Modernized in 1983, the New Cape Henry Lighthouse is still in use today. To learn more about the rich history of the Cape Henry Lighthouses, visit en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_Henry_Light.

Historic Cape Henry Lighthouse Attractions -

Nearby Historic Cape Henry Lighthouse, you'll find a world of historical attractions. Virginia Beach, Virginia is home to an impressive number of historical sites, and boasts 18 National Register of Historic Places. Top Cape Henry Lighthouse area attractions include the Francis Land House plantation, Pleasant Hall, Bayville Farm, the colonial-era Adam Thorough good House, DeWitt Cottage, Dr. John Miller-Masury House, Ferry Farm Plantation, Pembroke Manor, Old Donation Church, Devereaux House, Adam Keeling House, the Thomas Murray House and Weblin House.