Coastal Sites: Lighthouses in Pennsylvania

Lighthouses in Pennsylvania? Yes! Even though the Keystone State isn’t on the Atlantic or Pacific, it features several beacons along the shores of Lake Erie and the Schuylkill River. They’re all terrific attractions to visit from marinas or private boat slips for rent.

During the 19th century, the rise in commerce and shipping on the Great Lakes necessitated the construction of navigational aids to ensure safe passage for vessels transporting goods and passengers. The lighthouses in Pennsylvania played a crucial role in the economic development of the region, providing safe harbors and guiding mariners through the often foggy and stormy waters of Lake Erie. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Presque Isle Lighthouse 

The most well-known Pennsylvania lighthouse, the Presque Isle Lighthouse was constructed in 1873. Located on the sandy shores of Presque Isle State Park, it’s 68 feet tall and is still operational today. Its beacon is visible for up to 13 miles and can be seen from private boat dock rentals and marinas around the area.

The lighthouse has been meticulously preserved and is a popular tourist attraction. It offers visitors a glimpse into the maritime history of the Great Lakes. The adjacent keeper’s house, which has been converted into a museum, provides historical exhibits and artifacts related to the lighthouse and the region.

Erie Land Lighthouse

The Erie Land Lighthouse, originally built in 1818 and reconstructed in 1867, is the first lighthouse on the Great Lakes. Situated on a bluff overlooking Presque Isle Bay, it once served as a critical navigational aid for ships entering the bay. Although its light was decommissioned in 1899, the structure itself has been preserved and restored.

The Erie Land Lighthouse stands as a testament to Pennsylvania's rich maritime heritage and is a designated historical site. It attracts history enthusiasts and lighthouse aficionados from land, water and private boat lifts for rent around the region. 

North Pier Lighthouse

The North Pier Lighthouse, located at the entrance to Presque Isle Bay, was established in 1830. The current cast-iron tower replaced the original wooden structure in 1858. Also known as the Erie Harbor North Pierhead Light, it’s unique in its design of a hexagonal tower standing 34 feet tall.

It played a vital role in guiding ships safely into the harbor during periods of heavy fog and inclement weather. Today, the North Pier Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation and is a beloved landmark for residents and visitors. It’s an excellent spot to visit from private boat docks for rent on Lake Erie. 

Turtle Rock Lake Lighthouse

Located on the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia,Turtle Rock Lighthouse was built in 1887 by the Schuylkill Navy, an association of amateur rowing clubs that promoted rowing as a sport in Philadelphia. The lighthouse was initially constructed to provide illumination for rowers navigating the Schuylkill River, especially during evening and early morning hours. Its light helped rowers avoid obstacles and safely navigate the waterway.

It features a square two-story tower constructed of brick and wood with a distinctive cupola housing the light. The lighthouse stands at a modest height, making it easily recognizable along the riverfront. Its design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, fitting harmoniously into the scenic landscape of Fairmount Park.

Let us know your favorite Pennsylvania lighthouses to check out while boating and fishing from private boat slips for rent.