As we start to shiver and search for the mittens and scarves that have not seen since April, I thought one more quick trip north may be in order before the Interstate resembles a bumper car ride at Conneaut Lake Park. (you know, the one they call “dodge em” but yet no one seems to know that means you are not supposed to actually hit the other cars) So, pack the kids, pack some snacks, grab a few warm fuzzy clothing items and head out for your next adventure.
Many people know about the Presque Isle Lighthouse located near Beach 9 on the peninsula at Presque Isle State Park. What you may not know is that it is actually one of three lighthouses that grace the shores of Lake Erie on Pennsylvania soil. In fact, all three are located almost within sight of each other.
The Presque Isle Lighthouse was first lit in 1873 and was originally an oil lamp as were many in that day. In the late 1800’s the tower was painted white to be a daytime navigational marker on Lake Erie. It was fully automated in 1962 and the original light patterns which included red flashes were changed to a three second on and three second off white light pattern. The structure is commonly referred locally as the “flashlight” and the outside of the structure is square even though the inside stairwell is circular. Tours of the lighthouse are now available in the summer months and a wonderful gift shop is located on site. Information about the tours and the cost can be found at www.presqueislelighthouse.org. This lighthouse is located directly on the beach so a bit of beach glass hunting may be in order for the trip. I have found more “treasures” on the shores of the peninsula during the fall and early spring months due to the lack of competition of others searching for the same items.
Next on the list of lighthouses is also located in Presque Isle State Park right next to the US Coast Guard Station. The Erie Harbor North Pier Light is located at the entrance to Presque Isle Bay and to find it all you have to do is follow the signs for the Coast Guard Station and keep going left around the corner. As you make your journey you will see the cool house boats moored in Misery Bay, best known for the location that Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry constructed 6 of the 9 ships in his fleet during the war of 1812. It was also the site that several boats became trapped by the ice and sick sailors were then quarantined (thus giving it the name Misery Bay) Ships were intentionally sunk in the bay to preserve them, including the US Brig Niagara. The North Pier light was originally built in 1830 but it was taken out by a schooner headed into port in 1857. The current metal structure was made in France and assembled on site in Erie. The pier is a neat place to walk on and many fisherman use it for access to the channel which leads to Port Erie. Be aware that on very windy days the pier is exposed and small children in winter coats should be held onto or they may find themselves getting blown off the edge. I have on more than one occasion felt very much like one of the reporters in the hurricane coverage. The original fixed beam red lamp was changed to an automated red flashing lamp in 1995. Since this is located on the North Pier of the harbor, you will have the perfect example of the navigational saying “Red, Right, Returning”, which means as you return to a harbor or headwater from “sea” the red beacon should be on right side of your ship.
Lastly, and possibly the least known of the three Erie Lighthouses is the Erie Land Light. This sandstone conical structure is the most “traditional” looking as well as the first lighthouse that was constructed by the United States on the shores of Lake Erie back in 1818. It is occasionally open to tourist in the summer as a fundraiser for the Erie Playhouse. Located at 2 Lighthouse St in Erie it is close to the Bayfront Connector (PA Rt 290) and directly across the channel from the North Pier Light. There is a little park and some historical signs to read and just an overall cool view. It just celebrated its 200th birthday but has been wonderfully restored and in great condition. It is well worth the side trek to take a peek.
Until our next adventure, remember - Not all those who wander are lost.
