Oswego Object

Perhaps one of the most recognized objects in Oswego, the Oswego West Pierhead Lighthouse is a familiar sight to generations of SUNY Oswego students, alumni and college members. It was built in 1934 to replace an earlier light constructed in 1880. In 1967, the U.S. Coast Guard automated the lighthouse, ending the era of light keepers at the station. In 2018, using state funds and support from the City of Oswego, the exterior of the lighthouse was painted and some structural upgrades were made. It stands at the end of a 2,000-foot-long breakwater at the mouth of Oswego River, extending a half mile into Lake Ontario. It is accessible by boat or from land over the abutting breakwater. It is owned by the City of Oswego and is part of the H. Lee White Maritime Museum. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Learn more about its history and information about tours of the Lighthouse at
hleewhitemarinemuseum.com.

Photo credit: Kyle Hurley ’21