The original 1818 lighthouse was built of wood, but it was replaced because the foundation was unstable and prone to collapse.
The current tower utilizes a thick masonry design that was specifically engineered to resist the erosion of the cliffside it stands upon.
The lighthouse tower is not currently equipped with its original lens, as the Fresnel lens was relocated during the 1899 decommissioning.
The site includes a keeper's dwelling which was occupied by a sequence of lighthouse keepers and their families until the turn of the 20th century.
The Erie Land Lighthouse is the first lighthouse built on the Great Lakes, originally constructed in 1818. The current structure, dating to 1867, features a 47-foot tall stone tower built from local Erie bluffs limestone. It sits 110 feet above the level of Lake Erie, overlooking the entrance to Presque Isle Bay. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1899 after the light was moved to the North Pier. It was restored and reopened for public visitation in the early 21st century. The site serves as a maritime museum showcasing the history of Lake Erie navigation. It is located within the grounds of the Erie Land Lighthouse Park.
From the park lawn looking upward at the tower base with the lake in the background.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes as the park terrain is uneven.
Check the official website for current climbing availability, as tower access is periodically restricted due to structural maintenance.
Bring binoculars for improved viewing of the distant Presque Isle State Park shoreline.
Do not attempt to walk down the steep, unstable bluffs directly below the lighthouse toward the water.
Open seasonally from late spring through early autumn; typically closed during winter months.
Respect the historic grounds and stay on marked paths to prevent cliff erosion.
