The Buffalo Lighthouse

Somewhat overlooked, another significant preservation project was completed in October – masonry and stone repair of the 1833 Buffalo Lighthouse coupled with the creation of a public access walkway to the Lighthouse.  Often called the “Chinaman’s Lighthouse,” it is one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes.  It is operated by the Buffalo Lighthouse Association while it sits on U.S. Coastguard land.  Public access to the Lighthouse was halted after 9-11. 

The Association obtained a grant for the repairs from the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation.  

In 2008, then Senator Hillary Clinton and Congressman Brian Higgins secured funds to re-establish public access.  A walkway has been installed at the north end of Furhmkann Boulevard at the entrance of the Coast Guard Station.  This walkway, with a fence separating the path from the Coast Guard Station, travels about ¼ mile along the Buffalo River.  

Weather permitting, this is a delightful walk, with a park-like space enroute and around the Lighthouse itself.  While the public now has access to the Lighthouse, the interior of the Lighthouse is not open except when tours are being conducted by the Buffalo Lighthouse Association.