Erie Harbor North Pier Light

The Erie Harbor North Pier Light, also known as the Presque Isle North Pier Light, has a rich and complex history spanning over 180 years.

History

• Originally constructed as a wooden tower in 1830, it was swept away by a schooner in 1857.
• The current structure, forged in France and assembled on site in Erie, was built to replace the original tower.
• In 1882 and again in 1940, the lighthouse was moved due to changes in the shoreline of Presque Isle State Park.
• In 1995, the United States Coast Guard replaced its fixed red beam with an automated red flashing light, at which time the 4th order Fresnel lens was sent to the Erie Maritime Museum.

Architecture

The Erie Harbor North Pier Light is a 1858 structure, built in France and assembled on site in Erie. The lighthouse stands at a height of 12.8 meters (42 feet) above the waterline, with a focal height of approximately 23 meters (75 feet).

• The tower's architecture is characteristic of traditional lighthouses, with a square base, a cylindrical middle section, and a conical top.
• The lighthouse features a distinctive horizontal color pattern and a prominent Fresnel lens.

Location

The Erie Harbor North Pier Light is situated at the far eastern end of Presque Isle State Park, in Millcreek Township, Pennsylvania, United States. The lighthouse is accessible via the North Pier Trail, a scenic path that runs along the shoreline of Presque Isle Bay.

• Visitors can view the lighthouse from a distance or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance.

Current Status

The Erie Harbor North Pier Light is still an active aid to navigation, operated by the United States Coast Guard. However, due to automation, the lighthouse no longer requires a keeper or manual operation.

• In 2021, the lighthouse was featured on a postage stamp as part of the Mid-Atlantic Lighthouse series done by the United States Postal Service.

Heritage Status

The Erie Harbor North Pier Light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a designated landmark in Pennsylvania. Its historic significance and architectural importance make it an important part of American maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• The Erie Harbor North Pier Light has played a significant role in the maritime history of the Great Lakes region.
• In 1995, its automation marked a significant shift in the way lighthouses are operated, paving the way for modern aids to navigation.