Ever gazed upon a candy-striped sentinel? That is the Green Point Lighthouse. It stands proudly on the edge of Mouille Point in Cape Town. Many people mistakenly call it the Mouille Point Lighthouse because of its location.
The Green Point Lighthouse holds a special place in South African maritime history. It was the first solid lighthouse structure on the South African coast. It is also the oldest operational lighthouse in South Africa.
The story of the Green Point Lighthouse begins in 1824. Acting Governor of the Cape Colony, Sir Rufane Shaw Donkin, commissioned it. German architect Herman Schutte designed this beacon of hope. Construction started in 1821. It was completed in 1823. The lighthouse began guiding ships in 1824. The total cost to build it was approximately 6420 pounds sterling.
Interestingly, Lord Charles Somerset, the official governor, wasn’t initially consulted about the project. He even halted construction for a time.
When first lit, the Green Point Lighthouse used Argand lamps. These lamps burned sperm whale oil. The light could be seen for 6 nautical miles. In 1865, the lighthouse was expanded to its present height. In 1922, the range increased to 22 nautical miles with the installation of 3rd order dioptric flashing lights. Its light flashes white every 10 seconds. The intensity is 850000 candela.
But that is not all. The Green Point Lighthouse also had a foghorn. It was installed in 1926. This foghorn blasted for three seconds every 30 seconds. It could be heard up to a kilometre away. Locals affectionately nicknamed it “Moaning Minnie”.
In 1950, the lighthouse received its distinctive paint job. Contrasting colours made it distinguishable from surrounding cottages. In 1956, it was painted in the colors it boasts today red and white diagonal bands.
The Green Point Lighthouse played a role in rescues. In 1966, the rotating beam focused on the wreck of the S.A. Seafarer. This provided light for the rescue operation. The ship ran aground on 1 July 1966.
Today, the Green Point Lighthouse is more than a historical landmark. It houses the Head Office of Lighthouse Services. They maintain 45 lighthouses on the South African coastline. You can visit this iconic structure. The lighthouse is open to the public for a small entrance fee. It is also part of various sightseeing tours in Cape Town. The Green Point Lighthouse was certified a Provincial heritage site on 12 January 1973.
So, the next time you are in Cape Town, take a moment to appreciate the Green Point Lighthouse. It is a beacon of hope. It is a testament to maritime history. It continues to shine brightly, guiding ships safely along the South African coast.