Name and Location

The Port Clinton Lighthouse is located at G388+25, Port Clinton, OH, USA, providing guidance to mariners and tourists alike on the shores of Lake Erie.

2. Construction and History

The lighthouse was constructed in 1895, making it a testament to the region's maritime history. Its original purpose was to guide ships safely through treacherous waters.

3. Architecture and Materials

The Port Clinton Lighthouse is an iconic beacon with a red brick tower featuring a white lantern room and a black wooden roof. The structure stands at 40 feet (12 meters) tall, with a focal height of 50 feet (15 meters).

4. Light and Navigation

The original light characteristic was a fixed white beam, but it has since been modified to a Fl(3)W.15s pattern, meaning the light flashes three times every 15 seconds. The lighthouse is still operational today, although its original purpose as a navigational aid has been replaced by modern technology.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

The Port Clinton Lighthouse serves as a museum and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the lighthouse's interior, learn about its history, and enjoy stunning views of Lake Erie from the observation deck. Guided tours are available on weekends and holidays, with an entrance fee of $5 per person.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

From its vantage point, visitors can enjoy stunning views of Lake Erie, with the surrounding landscape featuring a mix of sandy beaches, rocky shores, and scenic dunes. The lighthouse is situated in the picturesque town of Port Clinton, Ohio, which offers a range of outdoor recreational activities.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

According to local legend, the lighthouse was built to guide ships safely through treacherous waters. Captain John Smith, the original keeper of the Port Clinton Lighthouse, is said to have been a skilled sailor who had navigated the treacherous waters of Lake Erie for many years.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse's light was initially powered by an oil lamp, but it has since been automated. The light is still operational today, serving as an important landmark for mariners navigating Lake Erie.

9. Further Information

The Port Clinton Lighthouse museum is open from May to October. For more information, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Recreation website or consult the National Park Service's Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) publication "Port Clinton Lighthouse".