LIGHTHOUSES OF BRITISH COLUMBIA:
Pilot Bay Lighthouse
Decommissioned
Location
Pilot Bay Lighthouse is located on Kootenay Lake. The point that it is on
was originally called Cape Horn but since so many BC lakes already have Cape
Horns the name was changed to Pilot Bay after the community of Pilot Bay which
was close by.
History
Pilot Bay Lighthouse was "lighted" for the first time June
13, 1904 with a oil lamp and at that time the fourth navigational aid on
Kootenay Lake due to Increased boat traffic related to the various saw mills.
Pilot Bay would be the only one built to look like a Lighthouse and thereafter
was always referred to as Pilot Bay Lighthouse. This lighthouse never had a
resident keeper but as with other lake aids had attendants to ensure its
continuous operation. This light was taken out of service June 30,1993. On July
20, 1995 the Canadian Coast Guard transferred the property to the Province of BC
and it has become part of Pilot Bay Provincial Park. The day to day up keep is
administrated by the local group "The Friends of West Kootenay Parks"
who maintain the Lighthouse and access trail.
Centennial
The building was restored in preparation for
the Centennial celebrations held in 2005. The two original windows have been put
back in the south side of the building, so it now looks - once again - just like
the photo on the cover of the book below. Also some large trees have been
removed so now you can see that truly expansive view of Kootenay Lake. For info
on Pilot Bay Ligthhouse or if you want to receive info about the Centennial
Party, (perhaps you have a story to tell?) contact The Friends of West Kootenay
Parks, at the address below.
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"The History Of Pilot Bay Lighthouse" This book is being sold to provide on-going funding for Pilot Bay Lighthouse. To make a donation or obtain copies of this book e-mail Susan Hulland or contact:
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Photo: © M.K. Mitchell