McNeil Beach Lighthouse

Also known as: McNeil Beach (Boularderie Island)

The McNeil Beach Lighthouse is a square pyramidal wood tower with a lantern and gallery, standing 10 meters tall. It is painted white with red trim, and its lantern roof is red. Originally built and first lit in 1909, it is situated on Great Bras d'Or Lake, a few hundred meters southwest of the east end of the Seal Island Bridge. The lighthouse became inactive in 1965, its navigational purpose superseded by the bridge's construction. After its decommissioning, it entered a phase of private ownership and restoration efforts involving Acadia University and community groups. Keilor Bentley purchased it in 1965, and it was later deeded to Acadia University in 1998 before the deed was returned. Restoration efforts began in 2004, continuing after Bentley's death in 2015.

Why it matters: Its unique post-operational history, involving private ownership, academic stewardship, and dedicated community restoration efforts, highlights a local commitment to preserving maritime heritage even after its primary navigational purpose ceased. The lighthouse faces threats from rising sea levels and erosion.