point prim lighthouse to undergo first major reshingling since 1958
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the point prim lighthouse is set to undergo a major reshingling project in nearly 70 years. the work comes after years of wear and storm damage, including damage caused by post-tropical storm fiona.
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the point prim lighthouse is set to undergo the first major reshingling project in nearly 70 years as the point prim lighthouse society works to preserve one of p.e.i.’s most historic landmarks.
the work comes after years of wear and storm damage, including damage caused by post-tropical storm fiona.
cathy krolikowski with the point prim lighthouse society told the guardian that some of the shingles had begun falling off, which prompted the society to look into the condition of the lighthouse’s exterior.
“the lighthouse hasn’t been re-shingled since 1958. we noticed after all the big storms we’ve been having that some of the shingles were falling off. the nails had rusted away.”
the project is expected to cost around $300,000. the society received about $178,000 from government funding and has raised $4,000 towards the renovation cost.
krolikowski said while the society has received government funding, it still needs to raise a significant amount on its own.
“we’re a small non-profit organization, so it’s a lot of money for us,” krolikowski said.
the society has set up donation options on its website and at the lighthouse to help raise the remaining funds.
work planned
before moving ahead with the project, workers removed a section of the shingles to examine what was underneath. krolikowski said there were concerns about the condition of the original brick structure.
“we were worried about what we might find,” she said. “but the brick is in very good shape, which was a huge relief.”
the lighthouse is covered with wooden sheathing beneath the shingles, which has also held up well over the years, she said.
the restoration will include new shingles, stainless steel fasteners and a protective membrane to help keep moisture out. the new shingles will also be painted on both sides to help extend their lifespan.
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scaffolding is expected to be installed in the coming days, and the lighthouse may have to close temporarily while that work is underway.
krolikowski said preserving the lighthouse is important because of its history and significance to the province.
“this is the oldest lighthouse on p.e.i. and one of the oldest in the maritimes,” she said. “it’s also one of only two round brick lighthouses in canada.”
over the years, the site has grown into a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
“it’s become a real destination for people coming to the island. it’s important to the whole area.”
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vivian ulinwa is a reporter for the guardian in prince edward island. she can be reached at vulinwa@postmedia.com and followed on x @vivian_ulinwa.
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