Fort Story in Virginia Beach, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Old Cape Henry Lighthouse
National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark
The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse was the first construction project authorized by the First Congress. Constructed by John McComb, Jr. of New York City, this project set the stage for all subsequent public works projects of the Federal Government. In addition, this specific lighthouse was a naval navigation aid to all shipping through the Virginia Capes, thereby enhancing international and coastal trade with the Mid-Atlantic States.
Completed 1792
Designated 2002
Erected by American Society of Civil Engineers.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Charity & Public Work • Communications • Landmarks • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the ASCE Civil Engineering Landmarks, and the Lighthouses series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1792.
Location. 36° 55.532′ N, 76° 0.465′ W. Marker is in Virginia Beach, Virginia. It is in Fort Story. It can be reached from the intersection of Sicily Road and Antic Avenue, on the right when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 583 Sicily Rd, Virginia Beach VA
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Virginia’s Hampton Roads, specifically in Coastal Virginia, and in the Hampton Roads Metropolitan Area. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Upper South, and in the Tidewater. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: A different marker also named Old Cape Henry Lighthouse (here, next to this marker); Through the Years (within shouting distance of this marker); The Cottages of Cape Henry at Fort Story (within shouting distance of this marker); Expanding Military Operations at Fort Story (within shouting distance of this marker); First Public Works Project of the United States Government (within shouting distance of this marker); Aids to Navigation
Credits. This page was last revised on June 21, 2025. It was originally submitted on June 21, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 139 times since then and 11 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on June 21, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
