THE 150th anniversary of the lighting up of Corbière Lighthouse is being celebrated from this week.
The Island landmark has helped seafarers to safely navigate local waters since it was first lit on 24 April 1874.
A number of events – starting from today – have been arranged to mark the milestone, including the unveiling of a plaque by the Lieutenant-Governor, Vice-Admiral Jerry Kyd.
There will also be gold floodlighting, a limited number of tours of the lighthouse and a three-dimensional scan will be taken of the inside of the tower – to be uploaded onto Ports of Jersey’s website.
The lighthouse was the first in the British Isles to be built of concrete and followed designs by renowned civil engineer, Sir John Coode.
Once manned by four keepers working two-day shifts, the lighthouse is still used by mariners as a navigational aid today – both as a painted day mark and night-time warning light.
It also houses a radar station, and both the foghorn and original bell are still in working condition but no longer used.
Ports of Jersey chief executive Matt Thomas said: “It’s an honour for Ports of Jersey to be entrusted with the care of one of Jersey’s most photographed landmarks, which is still used as a navigation aid to this day.”
He added: “We take our responsibility seriously and carry out regular inspections to maintain the critical service the lighthouse performs, and to keep the original brass fixtures and fittings polished.
“In preparation for this year’s anniversary, the lighthouse has had a fresh coat of paint both inside and out, and we look forward to celebrating this special birthday with Islanders.”
