Lighthouse Beacons from Scotland
Carraig Fhada (Port Ellen) Lighthouse
Photo of Carraig Fhada (Port Ellen) Lighthouse via Wikimedia
Carraig Fhada Lighthouse is located at the tip of a rocky promontory just over a mile from the harbour of Port Ellen on Islay. The building was commissioned by Walter Frederick Campbell in memory of his wife, Lady Ellenor Campbell. It was commissioned in 1832 and construction was undertaken by David Hamilton & son. David Hamilton was the foremost architect in the west of Scotland for a half century until his death in 1843. The beacon provides a fixed fixed light for the main approaches to the harbour at port Ellen.The building is unusual for a lighthouse being a square shape. As it is located overlooking the sheltered Loch Indaal it does not need the usual circular tower to cope with the stormier conditions faced by other lighthouse locations. (Graphic of Carraig Fhada Lighthouse below on the right is by Peter Church, via Wikimedia).
There is a lengthy inscription on a plaque above the entrance door which reads:
Ye who mid storms and tempests stray in dangers midnight hour.
Behold where shines this friendly ray and hail its guardian tower.'Tis but faint emblem of her light my fond and faithful guide.
Whose sweet example meekin bright led through this worlds eventful tide my happy course aright.And still my guiding star she lives in realms of bliss above.
Still to my heart blest influence gives and prompts to deeds of love.'Tis she that bids me on the steep kindle this beacons flame.
To light the wanderer o`er the deep who safe shall bless her name.So may sweet virtue lead your way that when life`s voyage is o`er.
Secure like her with her you may attain the heavenly shore.The building was taken over by the Northern Lighthouse board as an unmanned light in 1924 and converted to propane gas operation in 1963.
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