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Old Cape Henry Light Fort Story Virgina Beach, Virginia One of the oldest lighthouses in America, this tower was named for one of the sons of King James I of England. Construction began in 1791 and was completed in 1792. It was the first building authorized by the new Congress of the United States. Built of sandstone, it stands 90 feet tall. It was replace by New Cape Henry Light when cracks threatened the structural integrity of the original tower. Fort Story is an active military base. Entrance to the base is just off Shore Drive in Virginia Beach. The lighthouse is open to the public for a small admission fee. It is an easy climb to the top and you'll have an excellent view of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. New Cape Henry Light, just across the road, is not open for tours. |