Drive along one of New York’s Great Lakes (Lake Erie and Lake Ontario), and every so often, you will come upon one of the many lighthouses that periodically dot the coastline. Like the Selkirk Lighthouse, Lighthouses remind of a time in the state’s history when the lives and livelihoods of those who sailed on these bodies of water depended upon these beacons to keep them safe. Today, most of these historic buildings have been decommissioned, but you can still visit them and enjoy a bit of maritime history.
The Selkirk Lighthouse is actually a unique lighthouse, not just in New York State but also in the world. There are only four birdcage-type lighthouses remaining, and this is the only one located in New York State.
The property for the Selkirk Lighthouse was purchased in 1837. The official usage by the Federal Government was short-lived, only until 1858. In 1989, a new light was installed in the lighthouse and is once again put into service for official use as a navigational aid.
In 1976, the Selkirk Lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places as well as designated as a “Designated Historic Landmark” by the Oswego Heritage Foundation.
Stay in the Lighthouse
One of the most unique things about this lighthouse is that you can stay in it. In fact, the lighthouse has spent more years as a place of lodging than as an official lighthouse. It was opened as part of the Selkirk Lighthouse Hotel complex in 1895. The property exchanged hands several times over the last 100 years. Today guests can enjoy a fantastic vacation the Salmon River Lighthouse and Marina.
Guests have the opportunity to stay in the lighthouse or one of four cottages on the property. The marina has slips for rent as well as canoe and kayak rentals. Guest can also arrange fishing charters through several local companies.
Getting to the Selkirk Lighthouse
Address: 5 Lake Road Ext., Pulaski