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Start Point Lighthouse - by Nick Shepherd
Situated on one of the most rugged and exposed peninsulas in the English Channel, Start Point lighthouse has shone for the benefit of seafarers for over 173 years. During that time the lighthouse has undergone electrification and automation but its prime function and purpose remains undiminished.
Situated on one of the most rugged and exposed peninsulas in the English Channel, Start Point lighthouse has shone for the benefit of seafarers for over 173 years. During that time the lighthouse has undergone electrification and automation but its prime function and purpose remains undiminished.

James Walker’s design for the tower was approved in 1834 with construction being completed two years later. Walker was Trinity House’s consultant engineer from1825 to 1862 and during that time designed 29 lighthouses including Wolf Rock, Bishop Rock and the Needles.

At the time there was considerable debate as to whether the light should be situated at Prawle Point or Start Point but the Elder Brethren (equivalent to a board of Directors) of Trinity House finally ruled in favour of its present position. The contractor for the work was Hugh McIntosh who had submitted the lowest tender at £2765.

Somewhat surprisingly, McIntosh was blind but this did not prevent him having a very ‘hands-on’ approach to the monitoring and cost control of the construction. Indeed his disability did not prevent him from becoming President of the Institute of Civil Engineers and being involved in the building of both Falmouth Docks and Swansea South Docks.

In essence the tower to be constructed was to be 67 feet comprising 80 courses of dressed granite, rising in three diminishing stages. The base walls were to be 4 feet 6 inches thick reducing to 2 feet at the top.

The granite facing stones were brought in by boat whilst the rubble infill was quarried locally. There were to be six levels below the light and two basement levels. Of the six above ground, two were ‘service ’floors and four were living accommodation. The two basement floors comprised a kitchen plus coal store and an oil store.

Continue reading "By the Dart" July 2009 edition...
 
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