New York State is loaded with a vast abundance of historical destinations that can stratify the hunger of any history buff. Destinations like the Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse. This lighthouse happens to be the oldest surviving lighthouse on Lake Ontario.
History of the Lighthouse
The mouth of the Genesee River flowing into Lake Ontario was a very strategic location for not just the Seneca Nation that lived in this area but the white settlers who later bought the land from them. President Thomas Jefferson declared the southern shore of Lake Ontario an official port in 1804, with the chief area being where the Genesee River and Lake Ontario met.
The Bluff on which the lighthouse now stands made for a perfect place to shine a beacon for ships approaching the harbor. Until the Lighthouse was constructed in 1822, ships were guided by a torch in a tree or from on top of a hotel near the port.
The lighthouse was run by the Coast Guard until 1982. At that point, it was leased to the Charlotte Community Association, and soon after the Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse Historical Society was formed and set out to restore the lighthouse to its former glory. They restored the tower and built a replica lantern in 1984 to celebrate Rochester’s sesquicentennial. Lighthouse is Certified by the United States Coast Guard as a Secondary Aid to Navigation. The lens is automated to go on at dusk and off at dawn.
Picnic in the Park
There is a small park on the grounds of the Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse with benches and picnic tables. The view of the harbor is amazing, which makes this a fantastic destination to enjoy a nice afternoon or evening. If you are a history buff, you will find the placard in the memorial garden particularly interesting. The placards describe, in detail, the pivotal role the port played in the War of 1812.
Visiting Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse
Hours & Admission
The lighthouse is open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Monday, from April through October. Although private tours can be arranged during the offseason.
Call 585-621-6179 for more information or to arrange for a private tour.
Getting to Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse
Address: 70 Lighthouse St. Rochester, NY 14612.
Google Map Link
Have you visited the Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse? What was your impression of it? Do you have a favorite New York State Lighthouse.