Description of Historic Place

The Tower is located on a remote, rocky site at Bull Head. It is a tall, tapered, cast-iron tower with a strong base, elegant shaft and elaborate lantern. The lantern and cap has a prominent platform, handrail and weathervane. The designation is confined to the footprint of the building.

Heritage Value

The Tower, located at Bull Head, is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental value.

Historical Value
The Tower is associated with the development of safe trans-Atlantic navigation, particularly in the development of safe navigation in Newfoundland. The Tower also illustrates the theme of growing industrialization at the turn of the century.

Architectural Value
The Tower is a very good example of a standard, prefabricated Tower with good cast-iron construction technology. One of a grouping of Towers favoured because of their inexepensive cost, ease of erection, low maintenance requirements and long-term durability, this structure reflects the desire to achieve a design that would withstand the rigours of the Newfoundland coast.

Environmental Value
The Tower reinforces the character of its coastal setting and is a landmark for local fishermen and commercial vessels.

Sources: Joan Mattie, Six Cast Iron Towers in Newfoundland: Ferryland Head, Double Island, Long Island, East End Long Island, Bull Head, Harbour Point,Federal Heritage Building Review Office Building Report 90-145, 91-031, 91-033, 91-034, 91-035; Tower: Bull Head, Bay Bulls, Newfoundland, Heritage Character Statement, 91-034.

Character-Defining Elements

The character-defining elements of the Tower should be respected.

Its standard prefabricated cast-iron design, functional qualities and good construction, for example:
-the cylindrical massing of the cast-iron tower that consists of a strong base, tapered shaft and elaborate lantern;
-the lantern and cap with its prominent platform, handrail and weathervane;
-the construction system, comprised of rounded rectangular segments bolted together on the interior face;
-the small windows.

The manner in which the Tower at Bull Head reinforces the character of its coastal setting, and is a local landmark, as evidenced by:
-the overall form and massing of the tower, which is the dominant element in the setting;
-the high visibility of the tower to passing sea-going vessels.