Carraig Fhada Lighthouse Port Ellen
Sunday, January 28 2007
Carraig Fhada, the square lighthouse, is a famous landmark on Islay and a welcoming sign for visitors entering the Isle of Islay by ferry at Port Ellen. The lighthouse was commissioned in 1832 by Walter Frederick Campbell in memory of Lady Ellenor Campbell. Building construction was undertaken by David Hamilton & son, who was the foremost architect in the west of Scotland for a half century until his death in 1843. They also built the marble casket for Ellenor which lies in Bowmore Round Church. The building was taken over by the Northern Lighthouse board as an unmanned light in 1924 and converted to propane gas operation in 1963. The inscription on the plaque above the door reads as follows:
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.
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