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Fort Niagara Lighthouse

Scott Avenue 3

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Fort Niagara Lighthouse (Village of Youngstown)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Fort Niagara Lighthouse

The Fort Niagara Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Scott Avenue in Youngstown, New York, United States.

History

  • The fortification that stands today was originally built by New France in 1678 to protect its interests in North America. The British took over the fort in 1759 during the French and Indian War. After gaining independence from Britain in the American Revolutionary War, the United States ostensibly ceded the fort to the British until 1796. Following the signing of the Jay Treaty, which reaffirmed and implemented the legal border with British Canada, the transfer of ownership came into effect.

Architecture

The Fort Niagara Lighthouse is a lighthouse that was constructed in 1871. The tower height is 40 feet (12 meters), while the focal height is 45 feet (14 meters). The light characteristics include a pattern of three red flashes every 15 seconds, with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles.

The lighthouse is built using traditional construction materials, including stone and brick.

Current Status

The Fort Niagara Lighthouse is currently operated by the United States Coast Guard as an active aid to navigation. However, due to its historical significance, it has also been designated as a museum and site for historical re-enactments.

Location and Accessibility

The Fort Niagara Lighthouse is located on Scott Avenue in Youngstown, New York, within Fort Niagara State Park. The park offers various amenities and activities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic re-enactments.

Visitors can access the lighthouse by visiting the park's visitor center or taking a guided tour of the fortification.

Heritage Status

The Fort Niagara Lighthouse has been designated as a National Historic Landmark (NHL) since 1984. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which recognizes historic sites that meet certain criteria for their historical significance.

Notable Historical Events

  • The Fort Niagara Lighthouse played an important role in the history of the region, particularly during the French and Indian War and the American Revolutionary War. The lighthouse has also been involved in various military operations throughout its history.

Today

The Fort Niagara Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Details

NameFort Niagara Lighthouse
CityVillage of Youngstown
CountryUnited States
Coordinates43.26177, -79.06058
Current useactive aid to navigation and museum
Accessibletrue
Guided tourstrue