Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes, was a vital part of early American trade and travel. Because of this, many lighthouses were built to guide ships through its sometimes dangerous waters.
These lighthouses of Lake Erie served as essential navigational tools, and many still stand today. Here’s a look at some notable examples and their stories.
The Erie Land Lighthouse: A Beacon of the Past
The Erie Land Lighthouse has a fascinating history, and it’s a beautiful piece of architecture to visit today.
The History of the Erie Land Lighthouse
This lighthouse was the first commissioned on the Great Lakes in the U.S. It was strategically placed at the entrance to Presque Isle Bay to help ships navigate the often-treacherous waters.
The original wooden tower was replaced by a brick tower after almost half a century, and the round brick tower you see today was built in 1867. It has a 20-foot foundation made of oak timbers, crushed limestone, and Portland cement.
When it was fully operational, the lens was 128 feet above the lake, and the light could be seen from 15 miles away.
The lighthouse operated until 1880, closed for a short period, reopened in 1884, and then closed for good in 1899. The lens and lantern room were then removed.
Visiting the Erie Land Lighthouse Today
The Erie Land Lighthouse has been restored and offers spectacular views of Lake Erie. You can take self-guided walks and even climb the tower. It’s open seasonally, so check the website before you go.
Marblehead Lighthouse: A Piece of History
Ohio’s Marblehead Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses still standing on the Great Lakes. It’s been guiding ships safely along Lake Erie’s sometimes treacherous shores since 1822.
The lighthouse tower stands 67 feet tall in Marblehead, Ohio. Today, it’s a park with a museum and gift shop. Visitors can climb the lighthouse tower during guided tours, learning about the lighthouse keepers and the history of navigation on Lake Erie.
Other Notable Lake Erie Lighthouses
Lake Erie is dotted with historic lighthouses, each with its own unique story. Here are a few more worth a visit:
Lorain Lighthouse
Also known as the “Jewel of the Port,” the Lorain Lighthouse has been lovingly restored thanks to efforts like the “Pounds of Pennies” campaign. Consider taking a sunset cruise to fully appreciate its beauty.
Dunkirk Lighthouse
Standing 61 feet tall, the Dunkirk Lighthouse boasts a light range of 27 miles. It’s a significant historical landmark with a rich past.
Other prominent Lake Erie lighthouses include [insert other lighthouses and details here if space allows].
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lighthouses are on Lake Erie?
That’s a tricky question! The number of lighthouses on Lake Erie can vary slightly depending on how you define a “lighthouse” and whether you include all historical lights, even those no longer active. Generally, though, you’ll find around 30-40 lighthouses dotted along Lake Erie’s shores, including those in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ontario, Canada.
What is the oldest lighthouse on Lake Erie?
The honor of the oldest lighthouse on Lake Erie usually goes to the Presque Isle Lighthouse in Erie, Pennsylvania. While the original light was established earlier, the current tower dates back to 1872, making it a historical gem and a must-see for lighthouse enthusiasts.
How much does it cost to go to the Presque Isle Lighthouse?
Admission to the Presque Isle Lighthouse is very affordable! As of my last update, there’s a small fee to tour the lighthouse and climb to the top. The money goes towards the lighthouse’s preservation. It’s always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date pricing and tour schedules, as things can change seasonally.
Summary
The lighthouses of Lake Erie have long served as vital navigational aids, and today they stand as reminders of the region’s rich maritime past.
Many of these historic structures are open to the public and have become popular tourist destinations. If you get the chance, take some time to visit and explore these treasures of the Great Lakes.