Erie Harbor North Pier Light facts for kids
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 Erie Harbor North Pier Light
Location in Pennsylvania
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| Location | Presque Isle State Park, Pennsylvania, United States |
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| Coordinates | 42°09′24.12″N 80°04′14.16″W / 42.1567000°N 80.0706000°W |
| Year first constructed | 1858 |
| Automated | Yes |
| Foundation | Pier |
| Construction | Wrought iron encased in steel |
| Tower shape | Square pyramidal |
| Markings / pattern | White with black horizontal band |
| Height | 34 feet (10 m) |
| Original lens | Fourth order Fresnel |
| Characteristic | Red, Flashing |
| ARLHS number | USA-274 |
The Erie Harbor North Pier Light is a famous lighthouse in Erie, Pennsylvania. It is also called the Presque Isle North Pier Light. This lighthouse is one of three important lights near Erie.
It stands at the far eastern end of Presque Isle State Park. Its main job is to help sailors guide their boats safely. It shows them the way through the narrow entrance between Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay.
A Look at the Lighthouse's Past
The very first lighthouse here was made of wood in 1830. But in 1857, a large sailing ship called a schooner accidentally crashed into it. The old wooden light was swept away.
The lighthouse you see today was built in 1858. It was actually made in France! Then, it was brought to Erie and put together piece by piece.
Moving the Light
This lighthouse has been moved a few times over the years. It was first moved in 1882. Later, it was moved again in 1940. Each move helped it stay in the best spot to guide ships.
How the Light Changed
For many years, the lighthouse had a steady red light. But in 1995, the United States Coast Guard took over its operation. They changed it to an automated red flashing light. This means it turns on and off by itself.
The old lens, called a 4th order Fresnel lens, was very special. When the light became automated, this old lens was moved. You can now see it at the Erie Maritime Museum.
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Light on a pre-1930 postcard
