Oswego Harbor West Pierhead Light

Oswego Harbor West Pierhead Light is a steel and iron lighthouse that rises 12 meters above Lake Ontario at the end of a breakwater. The structure includes a one-story quarters building with double steel doors and interior rooms for those who worked here.

The lighthouse was built in 1880 and replaced earlier beacon structures that had guided ships into Oswego Harbor since the early 19th century. Its placement at the end of a long breakwater made it a vital marker for vessels navigating the lake.

The light serves as a symbol of Oswego's deep connection to lake commerce and navigation that shaped the city's growth. Visitors can sense how important this beacon was to the community that depended on safe harbor entry.

Summer months are the best time to visit when the City of Oswego offers guided tours of the site. The location at the end of a breakwater is accessible by foot, though visitors should check conditions before going out.

The walls are roughly 3 feet thick, and the interior is divided into separate rooms including a living area, bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. These spaces are finished with plaster and varnished wood, offering a window into how keepers lived while on duty.

Location: Oswego County

Inception: 1880

Height: 12 m

GPS coordinates: 43.47330,-76.51680

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:23