the first lighthouse was constructed of split-stone and was 40 feet tall in height. austin smith was the first keeper of the lighthouse six months after it was built. despite calls for the light to be discontinued due to a lack of harbor traffic, it remained until 1870. in that year the lantern room was removed from the tower which resulted in complaints from residents regarding its aid. in 1883, piers in the port were extended into lake erie which prompted congress to act in 1895 on the construction of a new lighthouse. the new lighthouse was constructed from wood and went into service on the outer end of the west pier in 1896. the old tower was razed in 1899, and the original keeper's dwelling was replaced in 1901 in favor for a more modern residence.