Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse

History

By the early twentieth century the 1871 lighthouse on the hill at Fairport Harbor was too far from the lengthening breakwaters to serve ships well. In June 1917 Congress appropriated $42,000 for a new light at the end of the west breakwater, money that also covered tearing down the old station; local protest later saved the old tower.^[2,3]

The new station was first lit in 1925. It combines a square tower about 42 feet tall with a two-storey keeper's house in a four-square style, finished in white with a red roof.^[3,2] Sources disagree on the construction: Wikipedia describes brick on a steel frame, and the Lighthouse Directory cast iron.^[3,4] The owner's website says the building has had no residents since 1948.^[2] The light is automated, and the lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.^[5]

When the federal government began disposing of surplus lighthouses, this one proved hard to place. It was offered under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act in 2005 without a successful applicant, then put up for online auction in 2009. Two winning bidders failed to complete their purchases, and a third auction in 2011 produced a buyer who has been restoring it as a summer residence.^[4,3] The work has included the roof, windows, wiring and a new kitchen.^[2]

The Coast Guard still maintains the light and fog signal. The September 2026 Light List gives an isophase white light every six seconds at a focal height of 56 feet.^[1] A smaller post light marks the very end of the breakwater beyond it.^[4] The breakwater is described as uneven and risky to walk, so the safer view is from Headlands Beach State Park.^[4]

How to see it

View from shore Best seen from a public park, beach or pier nearby.

Best public viewpoint

Headlands Beach State Park, just west of the harbour mouth, gives a good view of the lighthouse at the end of the breakwater.^[4]

Tower climbs

No public tower climbs have been offered, as far as our sources show.

Operator

U.S. Coast Guard (light and fog signal)

Last verified

Last verified 2026-10

Access details last verified 2026-10. Hours, tours and ownership change. Check the operator before you go. Pier and breakwater lights can be dangerous in wind and waves; obey posted closures and never enter private or Coast Guard property.

Questions people ask

Can you go inside the Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse?

Generally no. It is a private residence. The owner has occasionally held open houses, but there is no regular public access.

Where is the best place to see it?

Headlands Beach State Park, beside the harbour mouth. The stone breakwater is reported to be uneven and hazardous to walk.

Is the light still working?

Yes. The September 2026 USCG Light List shows Iso W 6s at a focal height of 56 feet, with a fog signal.