Two Centuries of Light: Explore the History of Marblehead Lighthouse

Q: Why is Marblehead Lighthouse such an important part of Lake Erie’s history?

Heidi Osborne: Built in 1822, it played a critical role in making Great Lakes travel safer during the 19th century when shipping on the lakes was essential to trade, migration and industry. At the time, Lake Erie was one of the busiest transportation routes in the U.S.

Q: How did the community come together to save it in 1998?

HO: Because upkeep became a bureaucratic and financial burden, the federal government planned to replace the lighthouse with a steel pole topped by a light. Dedicated residents formed the historical society to save it. Their efforts turned into the preservation of and education about the lighthouse. In June 1998, the buildings and grounds were deeded to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, creating Ohio’s 73rd state park.

Q: What’s new to the property this year?

HO: All the displays in the Keeper’s House are new. We have information about Fresnel lenses, the importance of lighthouses on Lake Erie, the difficult life and duties of early lightkeepers and a general history of lighthouses in the U.S. Our gift shop also doubled in size. Added items include new canvas prints and ornaments and more merchandise geared toward kids. 

Q: What can visitors expect for the Fourth of July celebration?

HO: The Firelands Symphony Orchestra will perform a free concert at 6 p.m. We have food trucks scheduled, buildings will stay open an extra hour and people can bring a picnic and watch nearby fireworks from the shores of the park. It can be a whole-day experience.

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