With the Canadian motto of a mare usque ad mare, translated as from sea to sea, it should come as no surprise that lighthouses would play a prominent role in defining Canadian identity. Canada’s history is one tied deeply with mariners, fishermen, and sea travelers, so it is no wonder then that Rocco Nufrio of ToroLUG decided to build this beautiful little diorama. The style of the building itself is quite engaging, but it is the landscape that really brings the piece together, and the pair of seagulls, circling the beacon suspended by two transparent arms, is also a very nice touch!
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada states that there are approximately 750 buildings across the country that are functioning as official lighthouses, with over 250 now mostly serving as either federally or provincially designated heritage sites across the country. Clearly, there is a deep tie in Canada between people and these (often) red and white octagonal structures.
The first lighthouse in Canada was built in the French fort settlement of Louisbourg on Cape Breton Island in 1734, making it the second recorded lighthouse built in all of North America. Unfortunately, it reportedly demolished in flame soon after construction was completed , and although it was rebuilt, it was also demolished several times more, including its final destruction in a battle with British forces in 1758.
The oldest still-standing lighthouse in Canada (as well as in all of North America) is the Sambro Island lighthouse, located in the Halifax harbour. Dating back to 1758 (an important year for Canada and Canadian lighthouses, evidently), and although it was automated in 1988, it is still functioning to this day.
Canada Builds 150 