Moving day for Wood Islands Lighthouse
Last Updated: Wednesday, March 11, 2009 | 12:22 PM AT
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The lighthouse was first jacked up and steel beams were slid under it. (CBC) After 133 years on one spot, shoreline erosion has forced the moving of the lighthouse at Wood Islands, P.E.I.
The lighthouse, which marks the harbour where the ferry from Nova Scotia lands, was just a few metres from a cliff when it was moved — 70 metres back to more solid ground — at first light on March 10.
Moving a building of this size even that short distance required two sources of power: a tractor-trailer and a bulldozer.
The old foundation was left behind. (CBC) First, it was jacked up on huge metal beams and put on wheels before being attached to the truck. The front of the truck was hooked by chain the bulldozer.
The move was made in winter so the ground would be solid enough to support the structure for the move.
Since 1941, when ferry service started, Wood Islands has been one of the gateways to P.E.I.
The lighthouse was slowly rolled to its new location. (CBC) For many, it has been a sight that meant summer holidays are about to begin. For others, it may have been their last glimpse of their Island home as they went away to school or to start a new career.
It may be the most photographed lighthouse on the Island.
CBC P.E.I. is marking the move of the Wood Islands Lighthouse with a call for help from you. Send us your pictures and memories of the lighthouse, and we will share them here.
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