Toledo Harbor Light

Toledo Harbor Light is a three-story brick and steel structure standing 21 meters tall on an artificial island in Lake Erie. An attached fog signal building completes this navigational facility designed to guide vessel traffic.

Construction began in 1901 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers created an artificial island by sinking a stone-filled crib into Lake Erie. The lighthouse was then built on this foundation to support growing shipping traffic.

The lighthouse shapes Toledo's harbor view and reminds visitors of the era when ships on Lake Erie relied on visual signals from shore. Its brick construction reflects the craftsmanship that defined Great Lakes maritime work.

The lighthouse sits on an island accessible only by water, making it not reachable by foot from shore. The best views come from the harbor or boat tours that pass nearby.

A mannequin dressed in uniform stands in one of the windows as a vandalism deterrent after the station became automated in 1965. This quirky security measure still catches visitors off guard.

Location: Lucas County

Inception: 1901

Height: 21 m

GPS coordinates: 41.76192,-83.32896

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:05