Big Tub Lighthouse
Located on Big Tub Rd in Tobermory - Bruce Peninsula

The Big Tub Lighthouse

Tobermory's first permanent settlers were Charles Earl and Abraham Davis. The port grew rapidly as fishing, logging, and shipping expanded throughout the 1880's and 90's. Navigational aids were crucial due to storms, shoals, and fog. Before a lighthouse was built, Charles Earl maintained a lantern on a high pole to guide vessels into the safety of Big Tub Harbour. He was paid $100 a year for his service - a considerable amount in those days.

In 1885, a hexagonal tower was built on Lighthouse Point at Big Tub Harbour. Hotly contested, the keeper's job was awarded to Earl's rival, Abraham Davis. Davis held the job until 1895 when he vanished on a trip to Devil Island. Another political appointee, his son Henry Bradley, replaced him.

Thomas Andrew Hopkins, a veteran of the First World War, was appointed part-time keeper in 1926 and remained on duty until the light was automated in 1952. In spite of storms and ice, the light at Big Tub has endured.

More information on the Big Tub Lighthouse

Tower Height: 41

Height of Focal Plane: 43

Characteristic and Range: Fixed red.

Description of Tower: White, hexagonal pyramidal wooden tower with red trim and red lantern.

This light is operational

Date Established: 1885

Date Present Tower Built: 1885

Fog Signal: Hand-operated foghorn, 1910-1963.

Current Use: Active aid to navigation.

Open To Public? Grounds only.

At the terminus of Hwy 6,turn left and follow the road around to the point. Parking and washroom facilities available.