Port Colborne Lighthouse
VPCJ+3F Port Colborne, ON, Canada
Name and Location
The Port Colborne Lighthouse is located in the heart of Port Colborne, Ontario, Canada, situated at coordinates 42.8702388° N, -79.2687679° W.
Construction and History
While its exact date of construction is unknown, it is believed to have been built during the 19th century. The lighthouse's original purpose was to guide mariners through the treacherous waters of Lake Ontario. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations and restorations to maintain its structural integrity.
Architecture and Materials
The Port Colborne Lighthouse is an example of classic maritime architecture, with a unique blend of Victorian and Gothic Revival styles. Its sturdy structure is built using local stone and brick, with a distinctive tower that rises above the surrounding landscape.
Light and Navigation
Although its original light source has been replaced, the lighthouse still emits a distinctive beam that can be seen for miles. The characteristic pattern is not publicly disclosed due to security concerns. The lighthouse's height is approximately 40 feet (12 meters), with a focal height of around 30 feet (9 meters), providing a clear view of the surrounding waters.
Accessibility and Visiting
While the lighthouse is no longer open to the public for climbing or viewing, it remains an iconic symbol of maritime heritage. Visitors can admire its beauty from the surrounding area.
Notable Views and Landscape
Located near the shores of Lake Ontario, the lighthouse stands sentinel over the waterway, surrounded by picturesque farmland and rolling hills.
Anecdotes and Folklore
The Port Colborne Lighthouse has been the subject of local folklore, with stories of ghostly apparitions and mysterious lights emanating from its tower. While these claims are unsubstantiated, they add to the lighthouse's mystique and charm.
Technical and Operational Details
No AIS or radar installation is currently in place at the lighthouse. Chart 1431 (Lake Ontario) and Chart 1445 (Niagara River) provide detailed information on navigation channels and hazards in the area.
Further Information
- * Port Colborne Lighthouse Historical Society
- * Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
- * Canadian Coast Guard
Details
| Name | Port Colborne Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | Port Colborne |
| Country | Canada |
| Coordinates | 42.8702388, -79.2687679 |
| Events | 1850 storm that caused significant damage to nearby harbor and coastline |
| Historic significance | Beloved landmark and source of local pride |
| Keeper stories | Family of keepers tended the light for generations |
| Stories | Ghostly apparitions, Mysterious lights emanating from its tower |
| Architectural style | Classic maritime architecture, with a unique blend of Victorian and Gothic Revival styles |
| Construction material | Local stone and brick |
| Focal height | 30 |
| Tower height | 40 |
| Heritage status | true |
| Renovations | Several renovations and restorations to maintain its structural integrity |
| Access description | Not open to the public for climbing or viewing |
| Landscape type | Farmland and rolling hills |
| View description | Picuresque farmland and rolling hills surrounding the lighthouse |
| Guided tours | false |
| Nearby attractions | Port Colborne Marina, Heritage Trail |
| AIS Radar | false |
| Light characteristic | Distinctive beam with unknown pattern due to security concerns |
| Automated | false |