Lighthouse Conservation Area

Features

Lighthouse Conservation Area is a 1 hectare property located at the mouth of the Thames River at Lake St. Clair. The lighthouse is 200 years old and is one of the three oldest on the Great Lakes.

Enjoy seeing an historic lighthouse. Also picnic, and fish. The conservation area is open for day use from 8 a.m. to sunset year-round, free of charge.

Lighthouse Conservation Area is located at the mouth of the Thames River – a Canadian Heritage River.

History

A pioneer family named Cartier settled at the mouth of the Thames River in the early 1800’s and built the first lighthouse. The original frame structure was destroyed by fire during the War of 1812. In 1818, the present structure was built. After Confederation, the lighthouse was extended in height to its present level.

The first Cartier family looked after the lighthouse for about 130 years until William “Dick” Cartier died in 1950.

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority obtained the lighthouse in 1973 and has since moved the structure and rebuilt it stone by stone.

An interesting article Chatham Daily News – ‘Lighthouse operator helped save 11 people over the years’

Map

No Hunting.  Hunting is a fineable offence under the Conservation Authorities Act.  This includes the illegal placement of tree stands, game cameras, blinds and other structures.  

Conservation Areas are NOT off-leash dog parks. ALL DOGS AND PETS MUST BE LEASHED. UNLEASHED PETS ARE A FINEABLE OFFENCE. CLEAN-UP AFTER YOUR PET! Section 10.-(2) and (3) Under the Conservation Authorities Act.