Buffalo Lighthouse

Location: Buffalo Harbor, on Lake Erie

Description: There have been several lighthouses built around Buffalo Harbor since 1818. The one that most people associate with the harbor, built in 1833, is an octagonal tower about 76 feet tall.

History of light:

• 1818: First lighthouse, a stone tower about 30 feet in height, built. It was built at the same time as the Presque Isle, PA, lighthouse, making them the first two lighthouse on Lake Erie.

• 1833: Current tower built, at 61 feet tall, replacing earlier tower.

• 1857-58: Tower raised to 76 feet. Third Order lens, and fog bell, installed.

• 1872: Offshore breakwater and lighthouse built.

• 1879: Life Saving Station built near 1833 tower.

• 1914: Breakwater Light rebuilt. Lens from 1833 tower was installed in this lighthouse. Old tower went dark.

• 1962: Old tower restored.

• 1985: Old tower restored by Buffalo Lighthouse Association.

• 1987: Tower relit.

Current use:

The surrounding area: Located on an active US Coast Guard station.

Public access?

Other information: To get an understanding of the Buffalo Harbor area and its lighthouses, I HIGHLY recommend visiting http://www.buffalohistoryworks.com/light/map.htm.