Name and Location

The Erie Land Light is a historic lighthouse situated on the shores of Lake Erie in Pennsylvania, United States. Its location is at 2 Lighthouse St, Erie, PA 16507.

Construction and History

The Erie Land Light was constructed in 1868 during the American Civil War era. It has since played a crucial role in maritime history, serving as a beacon for naval vessels and supply ships traveling along Lake Erie's shores during World War II.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse features an architectural style attributed to the Second Empire Revival style, characterized by a distinctive dome-shaped roof and a central clock tower. The exact materials used in its construction are not specified.

Light and Navigation

The light characteristic is a Fl(3)W.15s pattern, indicating that the light emits three white flashes every 15 seconds. Although the lighthouse no longer serves as a primary aid for navigation, it remains an important historical landmark and tourist attraction. There is no Automatic Identification System (AIS) or radar installation.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free, but guided tours are available for a small fee. On-site facilities include restrooms and picnic areas.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding area offers stunning views of Lake Erie. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the lake from the lighthouse grounds, as well as explore nearby parks, beaches, and recreational facilities.

Anecdotes and Folklore

The Erie Land Light has been involved in local folklore, with stories of keepers who braved harsh weather conditions to maintain the light. Some visitors have even reported seeing ghostly apparitions or hearing strange noises around the lighthouse.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was originally manually operated by keepers but has since been automated to reduce maintenance costs. The focal plane height is 65 feet (19.8 meters), with a total height of 74 feet (22.5 meters).

Further Information

The Erie Land Light has been recognized as a significant cultural and historical landmark in Pennsylvania, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and managed by the Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office. Visitors can find information about the lighthouse on official nautical charts and sailing guides.