Attraction Guide: Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia Beach, United States

Cape Henry Lighthouse Guide

Beacon of History: Discover the Old and New Cape Henry Lighthouses Guide

Visit Cape Henry, the site of the first landing of the Jamestown colonists in 1607, and explore two historic lighthouses that have guided ships safely into the Chesapeake Bay for centuries. The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, authorized by George Washington and completed in 1792, was the first lighthouse commissioned by the newly formed United States government. The New Cape Henry Lighthouse, built in 1881, stands nearby and continues to serve as an active navigational aid. The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime safety for nearly a century. However, its sandstone construction proved vulnerable to the elements, and its light was eventually deemed insufficient for the increasing maritime traffic. The New Cape Henry Lighthouse, constructed of cast iron and brick, was built to replace the original. Both lighthouses stand as testaments to the importance of maritime navigation and the ingenuity of early American engineers. Visitors can climb to the top of the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Learn about the history of the lighthouses and the lives of the keepers who maintained them. Explore the surrounding First Landing State Park, which offers hiking trails, beaches, and opportunities for birdwatching. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the lighthouses themselves, the nearby area offers a variety of seafood restaurants and dining options.