The Virginia New Cape Henry Lighthouse represents one of the oldest landmarks in United States history. The original Cape Henry Lighthouse was first lit in 1792 and has been guiding ships ever since. The new lighthouse stands around 350 feet away from the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse. They are both open for visitors to explore. Both are located inside Fort Story in Virginia Beach.
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The old lighthouse was built in the 1790s and has remained standing ever since. It was built by some of the earliest settlers in the United States and has an octagonal structure. Over the years, the building started deteriorating and cracking. It was decided that a new lighthouse was to be built and the old lighthouse could stay as a landmark. It was named a National Landmark and is preserved by the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities.
The Virginia New Cape Henry Lighthouse was built in the 1880s to replace the deteriorating structure of the old lighthouse. The new structure was built with cast iron and wrought iron and has a more modernized light. It continues serving as an active guide for sea vessels and is operated by the United States Coast Guard.
