Community idea
Signal and semaphore towers
Map telegraph, semaphore, and early signalling towers still standing.
Last updated: 17 July 2026
What you would map
Signal and semaphore towers communities pin real-world places on a shared map so people can find, photograph, and catalogue them together.
Geography is up to you: a single city, a whole country, or a worldwide atlas.
- Semaphore
- Telegraph
- Coastal signal
- Other tower
What to record on each pin
Each entry should help the next person find the place again and understand why it belongs here.
- Accurate coordinates (stand at the spot when pinning, where safe and lawful)
- Clear photos that show the subject and its setting
- A short, searchable title
- Signalling system if known
- Status: standing, ruin, or rebuilt replica
- Viewpoint photos showing the tower in the landscape
Why a shared atlas helps
Early signalling towers are rare and specialised. A shared atlas connects enthusiasts who know where to look.
Spreadsheets and private photo albums do not compound. A public community map grows with every contribution and becomes findable on SpotterAtlas and search engines.
How to start this community
Use Start this community to open the create wizard with a ready brief. Edit the name, description, and categories for your area, then publish when you are ready.
After launch, seed a handful of quality pins, set SEO title and description in Manage settings, and invite contributors.
- Suggested fields to consider: System, Status, Height note.