Signal Hill National Historic Site

Signal Hill National Historic Site Review

In spite of its height, Signal Hill was difficult to defend: throughout the 1600s and 1700s it changed hands with every attacking French, English, and Dutch force. In 1762, this was the site of the final battle between the French and British in the Seven Years' War (usually called the French and Indian War in the United States). A wooden palisade encircles the summit of the hill, indicating the boundaries of the old fortifications. In July and August, cadets in 19th-century British uniform perform a tattoo of military drills and music. En route to the hill is the Visitor Center, with exhibits describing the history of St. John's. In 1901 Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic-wire transmission near Cabot Tower, at the top of Signal Hill, and today you can visit the Marconi exhibit on the top floor. From the top of the hill it's a 500-foot drop to the narrow harbor entrance below; views are excellent. Walking trails take you to the base of the hill and closer to the ocean. Dress warmly; it's always windy.