Port Burwell Lighthouse

History of the Port Burwell Lighthouse

One of a few original wooden lighthouses that is still standing, and could quite possibly being one of Canada's oldest standing wooden structures. Back in the 1800s, Port Burwell was a commercial fishing port as well as a big shipbuilding center. There was a rail terminal right on the lakefront to take goods out of the village to the interior of the country.

The Sutherlands are well known in Port Burwell. Members of the Sutherland family have kept this light for well over 100 years until it was decommissioned in 1962. They are:

• Alexander Sutherland (1852-1873)
• Alexander Sutherland Jr. (1873-1885)
• William Sutherland (1885-1894)
• John Sutherland (1894-1939)
• John Sutherland Jr. (1934-1947)
• John Sutherland III (1947-1952) *In 1952 he left for Military duty in Korea*
• Jack Hayward (1952-1955)*Served as interim keeper until John's return in 1955*
• John Sutherland III (1955-1962)*Served again after returning from Korea*

The lighthouse is now inactive and is a maritime museum. The tower is open for climbing, but was closing as we arrived.

Directions: From Route 42 in the Town of Port Burwell, head south on Route 19. The lighthouse is on the right hand side.

View more Port Burwell Lighthouse pictures