The first Buffalo Breakwater Lighthouse was built in 1872. The need stemmed directly from the new break-wall that was put in place in the early 1870s to enlarge the harbor at Buffalo. From what I have read, the location of the breakwater lights were a constant danger to ships. There at least five separate incidents of ships hitting the lighthouse. By 1914, the Breakwater Lighthouse had to be completely torn down and rebuilt. Then in 1958, the Steamer Frontenac ran into the lighthouse with such force, it moved the lighthouse twenty feet and put it on a permanent 15 degree lean. It was torn down, and replaced by the current lighthouse in this photo in 1961. It is still active today.
Directions: The best opportunity to view this lighthouse is from the grounds of the Buffalo Coast Guard Station. To get to the Buffalo Coast Guard Station: Coming from Buffalo, take Route 5 south across the Buffalo Skyway and get off at the Fuhrmann Blvd. exit. You will need to continue along Fuhrmann Blvd to the first intersection that will let you make a u-turn. You will go underneath the Skyway and then get back on Fuhrmann Blvd heading north. Continue heading north until you reach the Buffalo Coast Guard station. The light sits on the property of the Buffalo Coast Guard Station.

[ Home ]











